To help customers following COVID-19, there is an industry wide roll-out of temporary changes to increase the limit for a contactless payment with a card from $100 to $200.
This change has been implemented across the Australian Payments industry to help lessen the spread of COVID-19 by reducing the need for physical contact with merchant terminals. The change was implemented from Tuesday 7th April 2020 and is expected to apply while the Australian Government Biosecurity Emergency Declaration remains as current.
On 10 June 2021, the Government announced a further extension to the Declaration to 17 September 2021.
If you’re wishing to take advantage of the new $200 limit for contactless payments, it is worth finding out:
- The retailer you’re looking to do a purchase from is offering the new limit. If you’re unsure, try attempting a contactless transaction above $100 and confirm via PIN if required
- Make sure your card offers the correct contactless functionality
FAQs – Changes to contactless PIN limit
Why is this limit being introduced?
The increase in the contactless limit is in line with similar increases implemented or under consideration in other countries in response to COVID-19.
Increasing the limit to $200 means that fewer people will need to touch the payment terminal when paying for purchases between $100 and $200.
How will I know when I can use the new $200 limit?
The new temporary limit will be available on Summerland contactless cards. You will be able to ask the retailer whether the new limit is available and will also know at the time of payment if you are prompted to input your PIN.
If the new limit has been introduced on your card, and at the retailer, you will have the ability to tap your card for purchases up to $200, with no PIN being required. If the new limit is not available on your card, or at a certain retailer, you will still be prompted to enter your PIN for purchases over $100.
At all times, follow the PIN pad prompts.
Will the increase in the contactless limit become permanent?
The new $200 limit is a temporary measure in response to COVID-19 and is expected to apply while the COVID-19 Human Biosecurity Emergency Declaration remains in place.
What about security?
Summerland will continue to monitor your account through our extensive fraud preventive systems in place and alert you if there is any unusual activity.
It is vital that you continue to keep your card safe at all times to protect against theft and check your account often. If you lose your card or have any concerns about unauthorised transactions on your account, please contact your financial institution immediately.
As a business customer, what do I need to do?
The roll out to payment terminals will be progressive. Please contact your merchant provider to find out when this facility will become available. At all times, follow the PIN pad prompts and encourage customers to do the same.
Cards issued by Summerland Credit Union ABN 23 087 650 806 Australian Credit Licence 239 238. Conditions, fees and charges apply. Information correct as of 06/04/2020
