The GPR, now in its 11th edition, is an annual comprehensive study that delves into the trends shaping consumer payments worldwide. This year's report is based on a survey of over 63,000 consumers across 42 global markets, offering insights into payment trends through to 2030.

Generational trends in cash use

Cash usage persists across all age groups in Australia, with older Australians leading the charge. Nearly 20% of individuals aged 65 and over report cash as their most frequently used payment method for in-person purchases. This trend is closely mirrored by those aged 55-64, with 19% of them preferring cash, followed by 15% of people aged 45-54. The data indicates a strong preference for cash among middle-aged and older demographics.

Interestingly, cash usage is not confined to older Australians. It remains the most frequently used in-store payment method for 13% of 35–44-year-olds, 8% of 25–34-year-olds, and 6% of 18-24-year-olds. Colin Baines, Australia and New Zealand country manager for Global Payments, highlights this trend: “Despite ongoing advances in the digital payments space, cash continues to be used by a significant number of Australians across every age group - even among younger cohorts of Australians, who are entirely comfortable with digital payments. Rather than disappearing, it remains part of Australia’s payments ecosystem, with Aussies simply choosing to use cash when it suits them best, depending on the situation and personal preference.”

Digital wallets gain momentum

While cash retains its place, digital wallets are rapidly gaining traction, particularly in e-commerce. Currently, digital wallets account for 43% of online transaction value in 2025, with forecasts predicting an increase to 50% by 2030. The growth in physical stores is even more significant, with digital wallets expected to rise from 21% to 32% of POS transaction value by 2030. 

Debit cards remain the primary funding source for digital wallets, indicating that much of the wallet boom is essentially card spending in a new form. Cards accounted for 37% of e-commerce and 64% of POS transaction value in 2025, with debit cards leading in stores and credit cards online. The Reserve Bank of Australia's recent decision to repeal merchant surcharging rights and lower interchange fee caps is anticipated to further reshape the economics of card acceptance from October 2026.

Australia’s leadership in BNPL

Australia, along with New Zealand, spearheads the Asia-Pacific region in BNPL adoption, accounting for 13% of e-commerce transaction value in 2025. The BNPL sector is expected to grow modestly, reaching 14% of e-commerce transaction value by 2030 as it matures. This contrasts with other Asia-Pacific markets, where BNPL accounts for only 1–3% of e-commerce transaction value, with countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore each at 3%.

Baines elaborates on the evolving payments landscape: "The transformation of Australia's payments landscape continues, with digital wallets growing fast, cards remaining dominant and BNPL now an expected option at the checkout. With cash still expected to have its place, Australian businesses best placed to grow are those that can provide the greatest flexibility of payment methods for their customers."

The report underscores the complexity and diversity of Australia's payment ecosystem, where traditional methods like cash coexist alongside innovative digital solutions. As the country moves towards a more digital future, the ability to offer a variety of payment options may become a crucial differentiator for businesses aiming to cater to the diverse preferences of Australian consumers.