Tipping culture varies across the world, and Australia is one country where it’s not as deeply ingrained as in places like the United States. While tipping is appreciated, it’s generally not expected in most situations. This can be a relief for travelers unfamiliar with Australian customs. However, in some industries, leaving a tip is a great way to show appreciation for excellent service. Here’s everything you need to know about tipping in Australia.

Tipping at Restaurants and Cafés

Unlike in the U.S., Australian waitstaff receive fair wages, which means tipping is not mandatory. However, if you experience outstanding service at a sit-down restaurant, leaving a 5-10% tip is considered a generous and appreciated gesture.

For high-end dining experiences, tipping 10-15% of the bill is more common, especially in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Many restaurants include an optional service charge for large groups, so check your bill before tipping extra.

At casual cafés and coffee shops, tipping is uncommon. Some places have a tip jar near the register, where customers may leave small change or round up their bill to the nearest 5-10 AUD as a way of saying thanks.

Tipping in Bars and Pubs

Tipping bartenders in Australia is not expected, but if you’d like to show appreciation for good service, you can round up your bill or leave small change. In high-end cocktail bars, tipping a few dollars per drink or rounding up to the nearest 5 AUD is a kind gesture.

Unlike in the U.S., tipping for table service at pubs is not necessary. Instead, buying the bartender a drink, known as “shouting a round”, is a more traditional way of showing gratitude.

Tipping Taxi Drivers and Rideshare Services

Taxi drivers do not expect tips, but rounding up the fare to the nearest 5 or 10 AUD is a common courtesy, especially for long rides or when drivers help with luggage. For example, if your fare is 48 AUD, rounding it up to 50 AUD is a polite gesture.

For rideshare services like Uber, tipping is optional. The app allows for tipping, but most locals do not tip their rideshare drivers unless they go above and beyond, such as assisting with luggage or providing exceptional service.

Tipping Hotel Staff

Hotels in Australia generally do not expect tips, but in high-end accommodations, it’s courteous to tip in certain situations:

• Bellhops: 2-5 AUD per bag if they assist with luggage.
• Housekeeping: Leaving 5-10 AUD per day in your room for cleaning staff is appreciated but not required.
• Concierge: If the concierge arranges a difficult reservation or provides exceptional service, tipping 10-20 AUD is a nice way to show gratitude.

Tipping Tour Guides and Excursion Staff

For guided tours, tipping depends on the length and quality of the tour. While it’s not expected, tipping a guide is a way to express appreciation:

• Half-day tours: 5-10 AUD per person.
• Full-day tours: 10-20 AUD per person.
• Private tours: Tipping 20-50 AUD per person is a generous way to thank a guide for an outstanding experience.

For group tours, tipping the driver 5-10 AUD is a kind gesture, especially if they assist with luggage or provide extra commentary.

Tipping at Spas and Salons

When visiting a spa or salon, tipping is not mandatory, but if you’re particularly pleased with the service, leaving 5-10% of the bill or rounding up to the nearest 5 or 10 AUD is a polite gesture. This applies to massages, haircuts, and other beauty treatments.

Tipping Grocery Baggers and Street Performers

• Grocery store baggers in Australia do not rely on tips, as they are paid a standard wage. Tipping in supermarkets is not necessary.
• Street performers in cities like Sydney and Melbourne often have tip jars or hats out. If you enjoy a performance, leaving 2-5 AUD is a great way to support local talent.

Final Tips for Tipping in Australia

• Cash or card? While tipping in cash is preferred, some businesses allow you to add a tip when paying by card.
• No pressure to tip. Unlike in some countries, tipping in Australia is entirely discretionary.
• Check your bill. Some high-end restaurants and hotels include a service charge, so tipping extra is not necessary.
• Be mindful of local customs. In some cases, offering a tip might even confuse locals, so only tip when appropriate.

Conclusion

Australia does not have a strong tipping culture, and in most cases, service workers do not rely on tips to make a living. However, showing appreciation for excellent service through small tips or rounding up your bill is always welcomed. By following these guidelines, you can navigate tipping etiquette in Australia with confidence and avoid unnecessary expenses while still being polite. Enjoy your travels Down Under!