If you've wanted to use eftpos to pay for things via Apple Pay, this has been possible via various CUSCAL-sponsored financial institutions in Australia, via Australia's largest credit union CUA, both for well over a year, and via one of the big four banks, ANZ, since late 2017.

The latest entrant is the eftpos Apple Pay party is Suncorp, who has finally shone a giant fiery ball of light on eftpos Apple Pay payments for its customers, giving Australians more choice over how they pay, as should be the case and right for every account holder on the planet.

Suncorp executive general manager of Deposits and Payments, Bruce Rush, said Suncorp eftpos and Visa debit cardholders can choose the eftpos payments network to make purchases and withdraw cash at participating merchants.

Rush explained: “We are committed to offering our Everyday Banking customers a range of convenient, safe and secure payment options. eftpos with Apple Pay gives our customers more choice and convenience".

eftpos chief executive Stephen Benton said Suncorp’s announcement was "a big win for their customers who want access to services like eftpos cash out, or previously did not have the ability to enjoy the convenience of Apple Pay".

Benton added: “With Apple Pay, Suncorp eftpos and Visa debit cardholders now enjoy the benefits of eftpos on their iPhone or Apple Watch without the need for a physical wallet".

As existing Apple Pay customers may or may not already know, Apple has ensured that security and privacy are at the core of Apple Pay.

The explanation is that when you use a credit or debit card with Apple Pay, "the actual card numbers are not stored on the device, nor on Apple servers.

"Instead, a unique Device Account Number is assigned, encrypted and securely stored in the Secure Element on your device. Each transaction is authorised with a one-time unique dynamic security code".

We're also reminded that with iPhone and Apple Watch, "customers can pay with Apple Pay in stores, restaurants, taxis, vending machines and many more places".

"When shopping in apps or on the web in Safari with Apple Pay, there’s no need to manually fill out lengthy account forms or repeatedly type in shipping and billing information.

"Every Apple Pay purchase is authenticated with just a glance or a touch with Face ID or Touch ID, or a device's passcode."

More info on Suncorp and Apple Pay is here, more info from Apple on Apple Pay is here, and the eftpos Australia site is here.