BOCA RATON, Fla. – Segpay, a digital payment processor, has expanded its operations into Australia with the establishment of Segpay Australia, appointing Sam O’Connell as Managing Director of the new venture.

The move, announced on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, positions Segpay as one of the first high-risk payment processors to establish a physical presence in the Australian market. Segpay Australia will commence servicing online merchants in the fourth quarter of 2026.

Australian Market Entry and Leadership

Segpay’s expansion into Australia includes the establishment of Segpay Australia, with Sam O’Connell named as its Managing Director. The company has also hired local support staff to facilitate its operations in the region.

O’Connell will be responsible for overseeing Segpay’s Australian operations and developing relationships within the local payment and fintech industries. His background includes experience across the payments and financial services sectors. Prior to joining Segpay, O’Connell served as a Vice President in the payments division of a major U.S. bank and also practiced as an attorney in a private law firm.

Cathy Beardsley, Segpay Global CEO, stated that establishing a local operation in Australia represents a significant step in Segpay’s ongoing growth. Beardsley highlighted the existing need for payment partners who possess an understanding of the challenges faced by high-risk industries. She also noted that O’Connell’s experience and knowledge are expected to contribute to building a strong foundation and providing necessary support to local merchants.

In addition to O’Connell’s appointment, Ash Said has joined Segpay’s Australian sales team. Said’s role will involve supporting merchant growth and strengthening relationships with merchants in the region.

Addressing High-Risk Payment Needs

Segpay’s entry into the Australian market aims to address the demand for specialized payment processing solutions for businesses operating in highly regulated industries. Traditional payment providers often offer limited options for such merchants.

The company’s decision to establish a physical footprint in Australia is supported by the country’s growing digital economy. According to Australia Post’s 2026 eCommerce Report, Australians spent A$82.6 billion online in 2025, marking a 14% increase year-over-year. This growth underscores the increasing number of businesses expanding their operations online.

Segpay’s Australian operation is designed to meet the specific needs of these merchants by combining local expertise with the company’s more than two decades of global payments experience.

Marketing and Global Context

Alongside its operational expansion, Segpay is launching a print and digital advertising campaign. This campaign has been developed by Creaxion, Segpay’s long-term marketing agency.

The expansion into Australia follows other recent developments for Segpay. On September 2, 2026, Segpay announced the opening of its new global headquarters in Boca Raton, Florida.

Key Facts

  • Segpay expanded its operations into Australia, establishing Segpay Australia.
  • Sam O’Connell was appointed Managing Director of Segpay’s Australian operation.
  • O’Connell previously served as a Vice President in a major U.S. bank’s payments arm and practiced as an attorney.
  • Ash Said joined Segpay’s Australian sales team.
  • Segpay Australia will begin servicing online merchants in the fourth quarter of 2026.
  • The expansion addresses the need for high-risk payment processing solutions in Australia’s growing digital economy.