Etiquette expert Anna Musson says tipping in Australia is not essential, but certainly appreciated. If the budget allows, she recommends tipping up to 10 per cent of the bill, especially when in a group setting where more items are ordered and extra service is required.

In Australia, tipping is not mandatory and is not built into the social fabric as it is in the US, primarily because hospitality workers are paid a high liveable minimum wage (often $25–$30+ per hour in 2026). When you do leave a tip, it typically goes into a communal "tip pool" that is shared among all staff, including the kitchen and "back of house" teams. While it is illegal for owners to pocket tips, there is often no transparency in how digital tips are distributed. A "pro-tip" for 2026 is that if you want to ensure your specific waiter receives the money, you should hand them cash directly. Many Aussies only tip for exceptional service (around 10%) or simply "round up" the bill. If a digital terminal prompts you for a 15% or 20% tip, do not feel pressured; clicking "No Tip" is culturally acceptable and common.