Overview
Love it or hate it, tipping culture has steadily crept into Aussie restaurants, bars and cafes. And despite growing cost-of-living pressures, you might be surprised to learn that more of us are tipping more of the time. In fact, the average tip across the nation has increased 25 percent year-on-year, now reaching $25.20.
Yet some tippers are a little more generous than others, with a recent Zeller report finding that one state stands out as the stingiest in the country. That'd be New South Wales, with the average tip just $16.90. Contrast that with Victoria — where the average tip is $39.50 — and the data starts to paint a somewhat unfavourable picture.
It's unlikely people from NSW are uniquely penny-pinching, so what might have caused this chasm in generosity? According to Josh McNicol, Director of Growth at Zeller, several factors must be considered. "The potential for financial pressure to dampen tipping enthusiasm, especially in costly cities like Sydney, is a logical outcome where diners feel tight budgets outweigh tipping impulse," he says.
McNicol also suggests subtle differences in hospo cultures could exist, with those in Melbourne more open to honouring stellar service.
He explains: "Victoria, particularly Melbourne, has long enjoyed living in the heart of Australia's dining and hospitality sector. There's an ingrained culture where diners want to reward great service, and now smarter payment technology makes it simpler for diners to leave a tip if they choose to do so."
South Australia is also highlighted in the data. The average tip has increased 64 percent, with Adelaide posting a 180 percent year-on-year increase. And for those keen to split the bill — only 2.9 percent of restaurant transactions nationally involve a split, representing a 25 percent decline. That suggests fewer big group outings — or perhaps more of us have generous friends.
Whether you're a tipper or not, check out our cheat sheet to the best restaurants and bars in Sydney or discover 20 top spots in Melbourne for a cheap eat.