Frequently asked
questions
What is eftpos?
eftpos is Australia's leading debit payment system by transaction volume, allowing electronic payments at the point of sale. Put simply, it's the way Australia pays. Every time you press CHQ or SAV, you are using eftpos. You can also use eftpos to get 'cash out' from retail outlets including supermarkets and petrol stations.
^ Back to the top Who owns eftpos?
eftpos is owned and administered by eftpos Payments Australia Limited (ePAL), which is wholly owned by 14 members being financial institutions and some major retailers.
^ Back to the top How do I pay using eftpos?
Whenever you press CHQ or SAV you're paying with eftpos. eftpos is available on all ATM or debit cards issued by an Australian bank.
^ Back to the top What if my card doesn't have an eftpos logo on it?
Don't worry; by pressing CHQ or SAV using any debit card issued by an Australian bank you are paying with eftpos, regardless of which logo is on the card.
^ Back to the top How often do Australians use eftpos?
eftpos is the most widely used debit card system in Australia, accounting for around 80% of debit card transactions. Almost 6 million eftpos transactions are made each day, comprising $285 million in purchases and $40 million in cash out. In 2011, Australian consumers performed more than 2 billion eftpos transactions worth $131 billion at 325,000 merchants, using over 750,000 eftpos terminals.
^ Back to the top Is eftpos safe?
Your PIN ensures no one else can use your eftpos card, so long as you keep your PIN secret. Also, eftpos payments are in real time, so you can check your account within minutes and be sure that the transaction is accurately reflected in your account. If you notice an unauthorised transaction on your account, you should contact your bank immediately. You are also protected under the EFT Code of Conduct.
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Why is it better for me to use eftpos?
With eftpos you are accessing your own money, so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you are only spending what you have in your bank account. It is safe and convenient. eftpos is the only debit card system that allows you to get 'cash out' at the checkout, making it easier to avoid ATM charges.
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Will I be able to use eftpos online?
We are developing an online capability for eftpos. In doing so, we are being careful to make sure we do not compromise our commitment to security.
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