Australia’s cashless debit card to become voluntary from 4 October, Labor says

Legislation to end mandatory scheme delayed by death of Queen Elizabeth II but now expected to pass next week

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People on the cashless debit card will be able to leave the program from early October after legislation to abolish the mandatory income management program was delayed due to the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Albanese government announced the updated timeline late Friday, along with the details of a new enhanced" card which people who choose to remain on the income management program will be able to use. They also announced $67m in additional social supports for communities transitioning off the card.

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