Is tipping expected in Australia?
Tipping is not expected in Australia. Workers in restaurants, cafes and bars are paid a minimum wage set by law, so tips are a bonus for good service rather than part of their income. Prices shown usually include tax.
Many Australians leave a small tip at restaurants for excellent service, often around ten percent or simply rounding up the bill. In casual cafes and pubs, tipping is less common, though some places have a tip jar on the counter.
Taxi and rideshare drivers do not expect tips, but passengers sometimes round up the fare. Hotel staff, tour guides and hairdressers may receive tips occasionally, but there is no fixed rule.
Watch for surcharges
Some restaurants add a surcharge on Sundays and public holidays to cover higher wages paid on those days. This is usually around ten to fifteen percent and should be shown on the menu.
Card payment surcharges are also common, especially for credit cards. These are not tips but small fees charged by some businesses to cover processing costs.
Did You Know?
The Goods and Services Tax of ten percent is included in displayed prices in Australia.