Aussies are tipping more – but not all states are keeping pace
Tipping is becoming a regular part of the dining experience in Australia, with the average amount left after a meal or drink climbing to $25.20. That is a 25% increase compared to last year, even as households juggle higher living costs.
Not all regions, however, are equally generous. Figures from Zeller highlight a big gap between states. Diners in Victoria are leaving the largest gratuities, averaging $39.50, while New South Wales sits at the bottom of the table at just $16.90.
Josh McNicol, Director of Growth at Zeller, believes there are a few explanations.
"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.
He also points to local differences in hospitality culture. "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 has also seen a sharp rise, with tips up 64% overall and Adelaide reporting a 180% jump year-on-year. Meanwhile, splitting the bill is on the decline, with only 2.9% of transactions now shared — down 25% from last year.
Jonathan Jackson, 28th August 2025
