The Cash Distribution Framework Bill 2026 has been passed by both Houses of Parliament and is awaiting Royal Assent.

The bill establishes a framework to regulate cash distribution services in Australia, including an oversight framework for service agreements and access agreements and powers for the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to set service-level standards.

It focuses primarily on the cash-in-transit sector, which has become concentrated around one dominant provider.

Cash distribution services include cash access facilities, cash storage and processing, cash transport and cash access support.

The main elements of the Bill include:
* the Reserve Bank of Australia can designate an entity that has a significant role in the cash distribution system. The designated entity is then subject to the regulatory framework.
* the ACCC can oversee pricing and other terms in agreements covering critical cash distribution services and access to facilities, and to set service-level standards to support access to cash.
* the Reserve Bank crisis readiness and resolution powers enable the RBA to step in if a designated provider becomes financially unviable, helping to ensure cash distribution does not stop.

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Author: David Jacobson
Principal, Bright Corporate Law
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About David Jacobson
The information contained in this article is not legal advice. It is not to be relied upon as a full statement of the law. You should seek professional advice for your specific needs and circumstances before acting or relying on any of the content.