Australians are still dining out – Is your venue giving them a reason to choose you?
Despite ongoing cost-of-living pressures, there’s some welcome news for Australia’s hospitality industry.
New spending data released this week shows Australians increased their hospitality spending in May, proving that people are still willing to spend on dining out, cafés, pubs and social experiences. Hospitality spending rose by around 1% during the month, with major events and travel helping drive consumer activity.
For hospitality operators, that’s an encouraging reminder that demand hasn’t disappeared.
The real question isn’t whether customers are spending—it’s where they’re choosing to spend.
Successful venues continue to focus on the things that make them stand out:
- Creating memorable customer experiences.
- Giving customers a reason to return.
- Using social media and email marketing consistently.
- Promoting seasonal offers and events.
- Building strong local partnerships.
- Training staff to deliver genuine hospitality.
At Australian Hospitality Directory, we regularly hear from operators who are finding success by focusing less on competing on price and more on giving customers a compelling reason to choose their venue.
The opportunity is still there.
Australians haven’t stopped going out—they’re simply becoming more selective about where they spend their money.
Ask yourself one simple question today:
“Why should someone choose my venue instead of the one down the road?”
If you can answer that clearly, you’re already ahead of many of your competitors.
Australian Hospitality Directory, 18th June 2026
