Australia Travel Tips

In Australia, tipping is not as ingrained in the culture as it is in some other countries, such as the United States. Australians typically do not have the same expectations for tips, and service charges are often included in the price of goods and services. However, there are certain situations where tipping is appreciated, and it can be a nice way to acknowledge excellent service.

In restaurants, tipping is not mandatory, but if you receive exceptional service, it is customary to leave a tip of around 10% of the total bill. In more casual dining establishments or cafes, rounding up the bill or leaving some loose change is a common practice. For bars and pubs, tipping is not expected, but you can leave small change if you are particularly pleased with the service.

In hotels, tipping is appreciated but not expected. If a porter helps you with your luggage, giving a few dollars as a gesture of thanks is a nice touch. Housekeeping staff can be tipped a few dollars per day of your stay if you feel they have provided excellent service.

For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare to the nearest dollar is generally sufficient. If the driver provides exceptional service or assists with luggage, a small tip of a few dollars can be given.

In other service industries, such as hairdressers or spa therapists, tipping is not expected but can be appreciated if you feel the service was exceptional. Again, a small amount or rounding up the bill is a good way to show your appreciation.

Overall, while tipping is not a strict custom in Australia, it is a courteous way to acknowledge excellent service. It is always appreciated, but not giving a tip will not generally be seen as rude or inappropriate. The key is to tip according to the level of service received and based on your discretion.