City of Moreton Bay business owners say mounting costs are squeezing cash flow and making it harder to grow, as the looming removal of credit card payments for ATO debts adds another consideration to business finances.
The reaction follows a Moreton Daily Business report on the ATO’s decision to stop accepting credit card payments, which prompted local operators to share their experiences of managing rising costs and working capital.
Splice Marketing CEO and founder Ellie Bakker said the cash flow implications of the ATO change for small businesses were not being fully appreciated.
“For many business owners, paying tax obligations by credit card isn’t about convenience or points. It’s a legitimate cashflow management tool that provides additional time to manage working capital, particularly when BAS, wages, super and other major expenses fall within the same period,” Ellie said.
Multi-site franchise business owner Larni Mailer said individual cost increases could appear manageable, but their cumulative impact was significant.
“Every cost on its own is manageable, but they keep stacking & the cash flow flexibility you mention matters more than people realise when you’re carrying 50+ staff & the fixed costs of multiple sites,” Larni said.
Founder of Courageous Girls Club Sam Bell said the prospect of business growth was also bringing financial uncertainty.
“My business is set for growth next year – meaningful growth. And I’ll be honest – it’s terrifying,” Sam said.
“It’s looking like my overheads will increase faster than income which leaves me looking at next year with a whole lot of doubt, fear & worry.”
Sara-Ann Interior Design owner Sara Rhodes said small businesses were dealing with pressure from several directions.
“I honestly don’t know how any small business can keep up with cost of living, wages, business expenses and then crazy tax bills to top it off,” Sara said.
The pressure extends beyond the ATO decision. Moreton Bay multi-site hospitality business owner Candice Kiss said separate changes affecting card surcharges were already influencing her pricing decisions.
“The card surcharge ban has me scrambling to find another 50k. So prices went up. If you want to stay in business there simply is no other choice,” Candice said.
For City of Moreton Bay businesses, the comments point to a broader issue than any single policy change. As wages, tax obligations and operating costs converge, access to working capital and the ability to manage when expenses fall due are becoming increasingly important to decisions about pricing, investment and growth.
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