If you’re looking for a simple and affordable way to accept card payments in your business, Square is one of the best options available in Australia. Setting up your Square account only takes a few minutes — and once you’re verified, you can start taking payments online, in-store, or on the go.
What Is Square and How It Works in Australia
Square is a payment processing platform that helps Australian businesses accept credit and debit card payments, manage sales, and run their operations more efficiently.
Here’s why thousands of Australian merchants choose Square:
- 💳 Accept all major cards – Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and EFTPOS.
- 🏪 Point-of-sale system (POS) for cafés, retail, and service businesses.
- 🌐 Online payments and eCommerce integrations.
- 💰 Transparent pricing with no monthly fees — pay only per transaction.
- 📊 Smart analytics to track sales, customers, and inventory.
Square is fully regulated in Australia and complies with AUSTRAC requirements for safe and secure transactions.
How to Set Up a Square Account Step by Step
Setting up your Square account in Australia takes just a few steps:
- Go to squareup.com/au and click “Get Started.”
- Enter your email address, create a secure password, and confirm your country as Australia.
- Add your business name, category, and ABN (Australian Business Number) if applicable.
- Provide your personal details (name, address, date of birth).
- Link your Australian bank account for payouts.
- Verify your identity by uploading a photo ID (driver’s licence or passport).
- Accept the Square Services Agreement and submit.
Once verified, you can start accepting payments instantly through the app or by using a Square Reader.
Requirements for Australian Merchants
To open a Square account in Australia, you’ll need:
- A valid Australian bank account that accepts electronic deposits.
- A government-issued ID (passport, driver’s licence, or Medicare card).
- A business ABN or sole trader registration (optional for individuals).
- A mobile device (Android or iOS) with the Square POS app installed.
These requirements help ensure your business meets Australian financial compliance standards.
How to Connect Your Bank and Verify Identity
To start receiving payments, you’ll need to link your bank account:
- In your Square Dashboard, go to Settings → Bank Accounts.
- Click “Add Bank Account.”
- Enter your BSB and account number (must match your registered name).
- Square will make a small test deposit to confirm the connection.
- Once verified, payouts will be sent automatically to your account.
Square’s identity verification process is quick — most users are approved within one business day after submitting valid documents.
Square for Small Businesses and Cafés
Square is especially popular with Australian cafés, restaurants, and small retailers thanks to its ease of use and affordable hardware options.
You can:
- 🧾 Accept tap-and-go payments using the Square Reader or Terminal.
- 🧮 Manage inventory and track sales in real time.
- 🌐 Set up an online store for takeaway or delivery orders.
- 📱 Send digital invoices or accept payments via payment links.
Square’s all-in-one platform makes it ideal for busy owners who need both in-person and online payment tools without paying high bank fees.
Square vs PayPal for Aussie Sellers
| Feature | Square | PayPal |
|---|---|---|
| Transaction fees | 1.9% + 0c (in-person) | 1.75% + 30c (online) |
| Payout speed | 1–2 business days | 2–3 business days |
| POS integration | ✅ Included | ❌ Add-on required |
| Hardware options | ✅ Reader, Terminal, Register | ❌ Limited |
| Invoicing tools | ✅ Built-in | ✅ Available |
| eCommerce tools | ✅ Free Square Online | ⚠️ External integrations only |
Verdict: Square offers a faster, more affordable option for Aussie small businesses, especially those that sell both in-store and online.
How to Fix Common Setup Problems
| Issue | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Verification delayed | Blurry ID or name mismatch | Re-upload clear ID and ensure details match |
| Bank account not linked | Wrong BSB or account number | Confirm details with your bank |
| Payouts not arriving | Bank processing delay | Wait 1–2 business days or contact support |
| Card reader not connecting | Bluetooth issue | Restart device and re-pair the reader |
Square’s Australian support team is available via chat, phone, or email if you run into any issues during setup.
👉 Next article: How to Apply for a Square Loan in Australia