Latest News

Mint Payments collaborates with ATIA on record-breaking webinar to demystify RBA surcharge ban for travel businesses

More than 700 travel professionals joined an Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) webinar on surcharging changes yesterday afternoon - the largest turnout in ATIA’s history, reflecting the scale of industry concern.

The webinar provided attendees with an understanding of the RBA changes, as well as tools to adopt once the surcharge ban starts on 1 October 2026. 

Mint Payments outlined the steps they have taken to support the travel industry, including solutions such as Mint Protect to help travel businesses protect their margins and adapt to the changes, rather than simply absorb surcharging costs. This includes service fees, and alternative payment methods such as PayID or Zip. 

Mint Payments CEO Alex Teoh noted that the changes weren’t without precedent, as surcharges were removed in the UK in 2018. 

Mint Payments’ practical tips:

• Be aware that card payment demand will likely increase
• Explore new pricing models and lower cost alternatives through payment providers
• Businesses have time to prepare before October
• Find ways to manage payment costs across the booking
• Work with your mid-office to integrate digital payment methods
• Mint Payments is offering support to ATIA members across the travel industry

The webinar, which was recorded, also included a Q&A session. 

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO DEAN LONG
“This is the largest webinar ATIA has ever delivered, and it underscores just how significant these changes are for our members. The level of engagement reflects the real concern across the industry and the need for clear, practical guidance as businesses prepare for what’s ahead.” 

“The proposed ban on surcharging represents a major shift in how travel businesses operate. It places a very real financial and operational burden not only on travel agents and tour operators, but ultimately on consumers as well, as businesses look for ways to absorb or redistribute these costs.” 

“ATIA is committed to ensuring our members are equipped with the insights, tools and support they need to navigate this transition. Working closely with partners like Mint Payments, we will continue to provide practical solutions that help businesses adapt while maintaining sustainable, customer-focused operations.”

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO ALEX TEOH         
“Over 95 per cent of travel businesses currently rely on surcharging, so this is a significant and far-reaching change for the industry. The biggest concerns we’re hearing are around the impact on margins, as well as the added complexity it creates in managing payment workflows and cost transparency.” 

“While the changes are substantial, there is a clear window for preparation. Travel businesses should be working closely with their payment providers now to understand customer payment behaviours, explore lower-cost alternatives and implement the right pricing and operational strategies ahead of October.” 

“This is not simply a matter of repricing. It requires a broader shift in how payments are managed across the business. With the right approach, including the use of alternative payment methods and more efficient workflows, businesses can minimise the impact and protect their profitability.”