What's the tipping custom in Australia and New Zealand?

Not required in Australia, although for above-average service, it is okay to tip 10%. If you are American, you will be amazed at the service you will get from waitstaff thinking that you will tip.

Brian:<BR><BR>We have traveled extensively in Australia and New Zealand. Along the way we have made many friends downunder who have advised us that while it is their custom not to tip, servers will not refuse a gratuity. We found this to be true. We do not tip except when the service is exemplary. Which is most of the time. Do what makes you feel comfortable.<BR>John

Tipping is not required and not expected. But that is not to say that it is not appreciated. If you have enjoyed yourself, tip what you think the service was worth. Remember that NZ and Australia both have minimum wages - your service charge has already been included in your bill.

I agree with jo, we do have minimum wages specified and therefore it is not expected or required. I would hate to see the day that it is.

I too would hate to see obligatory tipping or even enforced tipping ( as with some of the cruise ships ) However having said that, I do tip in Australia when the service is good because I think that it is a token of your appreciation to a particular person. I am always amazed that Americans and Canadians do not tip when in Australia because always in their arguement for tipping they use a subjective reason for why it is necessary - so if its necessary in the US then it is equally necessary here. It is very confusing then for Australians who give extra good service to overseas visitors when they do not get a tip for that very reason but when it is given it is always accepted with pleasure with the knowledge that the person has made someone happy.<BR>Contrary to a previous poster who said that the "service" charge is included in your bill - it is not included in Australia. What sometimes is included is a surcharge for Public Holidays as the wages are twice normal on those days, but not a service charge. We do have Federal Taxes of 10% but usually these are costed into the actual meal charge and do not appear on your bill. <BR>What you see in the costing of the meals is what you pay.