somethingprettyBy SomethingPretty editorial · Published · 2 min read
Ask what triggers the fee
A weekend or public-holiday fee relates to the booking date or service. A card surcharge relates to how you pay. They are different charges with different rules. Request the full payable total for your actual date before comparing venues.
Calculate the stated fee, not a guessed average
If a fictional contract applies a 10% date-based fee to a $12,000 package, that fee is $1,200. This example is arithmetic, not a typical market rate or a statement that every such fee is valid. Check precisely which charges form the percentage base.
Check card fees against current guidance
From 1 October 2026, Visa, Mastercard, eftpos and American Express introduced no-surcharge rules, as described in current ACCC guidance. A separate fee for paying with one of these cards needs checking against the relevant network rules and any applicable exception. It should not simply be renamed to disguise the same payment-method charge.
Do not confuse the two questions
The card-rule change does not itself prohibit a genuine weekend or public-holiday fee unrelated to payment method. Price-display requirements still matter. Ask for a written inclusive price and clarification of any mandatory charge rather than assuming a restaurant-menu exception covers every wedding package.
Review old quotes before making a new payment
An earlier invoice may still list a card surcharge. Ask the venue for current payment instructions and a corrected explanation where needed. For concerns, raise the charge with the business and consult the linked ACCC and card-network guidance. SomethingPretty does not decide an individual legal dispute.
Bring the details into your plan.
Use confirmed figures, keep unknowns visible and record the dates agreed with your providers.
Sources and editorial notes
Sources checked 23 October 2026. Worked examples are fictional illustrations. Rules and provider terms can change; check the official source for your circumstances.
General information, not an individual legal, financial or contract assessment. AI-assisted drafting with source checks; independent professional review has not been completed. About our guides · Suggest a correction