Why go
Prices in Australian dollars are easier to compare when you account for exchange rates and fees together. Cards cover many purchases, but an individual stall or rural stop may need another payment option. Check what a seller accepts and the total at the till, including any cash rounding, before you pay.
The full story
The Australian dollar is the currency to use when comparing prices across the trip. Notes are made from polymer, so they feel different from paper banknotes. Cash and card can produce slightly different totals at the till because cash amounts may be rounded to the nearest five cents. Check the displayed total before you pay. If you need to exchange currency, compare the amount of Australian dollars you will actually receive after the rate and any commission. A 'no commission' sign alone does not tell you whether the deal is good. Your bank or card provider can also set its own conversion rate and fees, so review those terms before travel. Cards are convenient for many purchases, but a small cash reserve can help when an individual seller cannot take your card. For market stalls, rural stops or a particular attraction, check the accepted payment methods in advance instead of assuming every counter works the same way.