Tipping in Australia: The Australia Tipping Guide

Tipping in Australia can be difficult to navigate, as it’s not considered necessary. This Australia tipping guide will help you know how much to tip for great service.

Tipping in Australia

Tipping in Australia is a fairly new practice, and is by no means obligatory. Servers receive a livable minimum wage, which means tipping isn’t as necessary as other countries with low pay for employees. It is, however, always welcome to show appreciation for exceptional service. A good rule of thumb is to round your bill up to the nearest $5 or $10 when service exceeds expectations. Be aware that restaurant prices are required by law to include tax and service charges, so there will be no unexpected additions to the cost of an item. It is common for servers not to receive tips included on a credit card, so try to leave cash whenever possible.

The main thing to keep in mind is you needn’t tip unless you want to show your gratitude. This Australia tipping guide will help you navigate when/where you can leave a little extra for great service.

Australia Tipping Guide

Cafe Server: If there is a tip jar by the cash register, it’s a nice gesture to leave a couple of coins. For exceptional table service, round up to the nearest $5 but give no more than 10 percent.

Restaurant Server: There is no obligation to tip as waitstaff receive a livable minimum wage. For service that exceeds expectations, feel free to round the bill up to the nearest $5 or $10. Servers sometimes don’t receive tips included on a credit card, so always try to tip in cash whenever possible.

Bartender: It’s rare to tip a bartender, as most do not expect it and some may even refuse it. A large round, however, may deserve a few dollars.

Taxis: A tip isn’t expected, but is always appreciated. A good rule of thumb is to tip 10 percent of the final bill for a smooth and courteous ride. You can also let the driver “keep the change,” if that’s easier.

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Airport Shuttle: It is not necessary to tip your driver, but feel free to give $1 per bag if they help with your luggage.

Doorman: A simple thank you for great service is sufficient, but feel free to tip $1 if you’d like.

Bellhop: It is considerate to tip $1 to $2 per bag, depending on size, but by no means expected.

Housecleaning: For those staying a week or more, it is considerate to leave $5 for a well-maintained room during your stay.

Concierge: It is not common to tip the concierge, but it is up to you to tip if you feel the service exceeds expectations and deserves monetary recognition.

Stylist: Don’t hesitate to tip 10 percent of the final bill if you’re happy with your new look.

Spa Service Provider: Tipping is rare, so a tip of up to 10 percent for exceptional service is appreciated.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Tipping: The Ultimate Guide to Tipping for Travelers
• Does the Hotel Maid Look Through Your Stuff?
• Hotel Tipping—Do You or Don’t You?