Public holiday surcharges in Australia, and how to show them on online orders
Updated 2026-10-27
General information only. Check the ACCC and RBA for current rules.
Disclose it upfront
The ACCC's guidance is that a surcharge applying on certain days must be clearly displayed. On your ordering page, say so at the top of the menu ("A 15% surcharge applies on public holidays") and show it as a line on the order summary before payment. Don't hide it at the last step.
Know your state's public holidays
Public holidays differ by state and territory, and some are local (for example, show days and Melbourne Cup Day in parts of Victoria). Set them up in advance as special hours or surcharge days in your local time zone.
Card surcharges
If you add a fee for paying by card, it can't be more than your cost of accepting that card. The RBA reviewed card surcharging in 2025–26, so check the current rules before you set one.
Consider not surcharging online
Some venues skip surcharges on their own page and build them into app prices instead, which gives customers another reason to order direct.
Surcharges are easier to manage on your own ordering system than on marketplaces. Table orders can show them with QR code ordering, and the full feature list covers menus, hours and fees.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I add a public holiday surcharge to online orders?
Yes, if it is clearly disclosed. The ACCC says surcharges must be shown clearly so customers know before they buy.
Can I surcharge card payments?
Card surcharges must not exceed your cost of acceptance under RBA rules, which were being reviewed in 2025–26. Check the RBA and ACCC for the current position.
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