We’ve got some great news about your card payments at Northcote Aquatic and Recreation Centre (NARC): starting 1 October 2026, we will no longer be passing on card transaction surcharges to our members and visitors.
Whether you’re tapping for your morning coffee at the café, grabbing a new pair of goggles at reception, or paying your membership via card, what you see is what you pay. No extra tick-boxes, no surprise cents at checkout.
🔍 Frequently Asked Questions
When do these changes take effect?The removal of card surcharges goes live across all our facilities and digital platforms on 1 October 2026. If your membership payments are processed via a saved card, the first payment under these new rules will occur on Thursday, 1 October 2026.
Do I need to do anything with my account?Nope! Everything is handled automatically behind the scenes. You’ll simply stop seeing the transaction fee added to your statement starting from your October 1st payment onward.
What payment types are included?All card transactions across designated major payment networks:
💳 Visa (Credit, Debit, Prepaid)
💳 Mastercard (Credit, Debit, Prepaid)
💳 eftpos
💳 American Express (Amex)
Why is this changing?In line with updated Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) regulations coming into effect on 1 October 2026, payment networks are removing card surcharges. We’re thrilled to roll this out across all NARC services to make your experience simpler and completely transparent.
What about direct debits from a bank account?These RBA changes specifically apply to card payment networks. Direct debits set up directly via a bank account (BSB & Account Number) remain unchanged, with the standard $0.50 fee per direct debit continuing as normal.
What about other account fees?This regulatory change only removes payment transaction surcharges. Other standard account management fees—such as the $10 fee applied for unsuccessful direct debit attempts—remain unchanged, as this is a rejection fee rather than a transaction surcharge.
Are weekend, public holiday, or booking fees changing?No! Standard weekend/public holiday surcharges and standard booking or service fees remain completely unaffected by this update.
What about third-party vendors (like vending machines or kiosks)?We are coordinating with all onsite partners, vendors, and third-party platform providers to ensure any card surcharges across vending machines, digital ordering platforms (like Me&U), and booking portals are removed by the 1 October deadline.
⚙️ Managing Your Account & Contact Us
Want to review or update your payment details? You can easily manage your payment methods anytime by visiting the Darebin Venues - Client Portal and heading to the Payment Settings tab.
Our team is always here to help! If you have any questions about your payment method or membership account, feel free to pop past the reception desk on your next visit, give us a call, or send us an email:
📞 Phone: 03 9088 4600
📧 Email: info@northcoteaquaticreccentre.com.au
See you around the centre!
The NARC Team