How have Australians’ spending habits evolved? The way we use banking products shapes how we manage, access and spend our money. Through Rachel’s routine, you’ll see how everyday choices connect to the bigger banking system, and how you can navigate it with more confidence and control. Along the way, you’ll also discover some of the behind-the-scenes protections that keep your money safe. Let’s step into her routine to find out more!
Spend the day
with Rachel Smith
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Payment architecture
While Rachel sleeps, her wage lands directly in her account. Behind the scenes, Australia’s payments system quietly moves money with speed and security. This invisible infrastructure, supported by strict rules and safeguards, makes sure money flows smoothly between banks and businesses, so Australians can trust that their pay and payments will always arrive safely and on time.
Payment devices
On her way to work, Rachel taps her smartwatch at the train gate. From cards to phones to wearables, Australians can choose the device that suits them best, making everyday transactions faster and easier.
Card usage
Near her office, Rachel buys her morning coffee with a debit card instead of cash. For most Australians, cards have become the go-to for everyday purchases, offering speed, security and convenience. Behind the tap, networks and interchange systems make sure money moves safely and securely between your bank, the merchant’s bank, and the business itself.
Inter-bank transfer
At work, Rachel pays for a delivery using PayID, making moving money between banks faster, safer and easier. Confirmation of Payee builds on PayID, taking the next step in keeping payments safe. While PayID made sending money easier, CoP helps make sure you’re paying the right person or business before you hit send.
New payment services
Over lunch, Rachel helps her uncle download an app so they can easily split the bill. These services make it simpler to share costs, send money and manage payments with friends and family.
Branch in your hand
While waiting for dinner with friends, Rachel easily checks off her banking tasks on her phone, since mobile banking lets her manage everyday finances anytime, anywhere without needing to visit a branch. Australian banks also remain committed to supporting customers by keeping more branches open, maintaining access to services through Bank@Post, and extending a moratorium on regional branch closures until mid-2027.
Card details
After dinner, Rachel uses an app to book her ride home and the amount is automatically debited because her payment details are already saved. Saving card details in apps makes paying faster, simpler and more convenient.
Invisible payments
After Rachel falls asleep, her bills are paid automatically through direct debit. Setting up payments this way makes managing bills effortless, reliable and stress-free. These payments rely on direct debit agreements, which give you control to set them up and protections if something goes wrong.
Spend the day
Spend the day: Rachel shows how banking can be simple, fast and secure. While it feels effortless on the surface, it’s supported by a complex system of checks and protections working for you in the background. Restart the journey to see it in action again.