Australia Tipping Guide

Tipping is not customary in Australia. Australian hospitality employees are protected by the Fair Work Ombudsman with award rates and one of the highest national minimum wages in the world. As a result, tips are neither expected nor relied upon.

When Do Australians Tip?

• Fine Dining: In upscale restaurants with exceptional, attentive table service, diners occasionally leave 5% to 10% as a bonus.
• Cafes & Bars: Counter tip jars exist in many independent cafes, but dropping loose coins is strictly voluntary.
• Taxis: Rounding up to the nearest dollar or telling the driver to "keep the change" is common for convenience.
• Salons, Delivery & Hotels: Tipping is not expected.

Weekend & Public Holiday Surcharges

In Australia, it is legal and common for cafes and restaurants to add a 10% to 15% surcharge on Sundays and public holidays. This surcharge is mandated to offset legally required "penalty rates" (overtime pay) for staff working on holidays. It is not an employee tip.