Perth

General Overview

• Customary Practice: Tipping is not a widespread or obligatory practice in Perth. Most locals do not tip regularly, and service staff do not rely on tips as part of their income.
• Currency: The currency used in Perth is the Australian Dollar (AUD). If you choose to tip, it’s best to leave cash in AUD or add it to your bill via card payment if the option is available.
• Amount: If you decide to tip, the amount is typically modest—around 5-10% of the bill for excellent service. Larger tips are rare and not expected.

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Tipping in Restaurants and Cafes

• Restaurants:
  • Tipping is not expected, but if you receive exceptional service, leaving a tip of 5-10% of the total bill is a kind gesture.
  • Upscale or fine-dining establishments may see tips more frequently, but even in these cases, it’s not mandatory.
  • Many restaurants in Perth include a service charge for large groups (e.g., 8 or more people), so check your bill before tipping.
• Cafes:
  • Tipping is uncommon in cafes. If you feel inclined, you can round up the bill or leave a small amount (e.g., $1-$2 AUD) in a tip jar, which is often placed near the cash register.

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Tipping in Hotels

• Bellhops/Porters: If a porter assists you with your luggage, a tip of $2-$5 AUD per bag is a nice gesture but not expected.
• Housekeeping: Tipping housekeeping staff is not common in Perth. However, if you wish to show appreciation for exceptional service, leaving $5-$10 AUD at the end of your stay is thoughtful.
• Concierge: If the concierge provides outstanding assistance, such as securing hard-to-get reservations or arranging special services, a tip of $10-$20 AUD is generous but not required.

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Tipping for Transportation

• Taxis/Rideshares:
  • Tipping taxi drivers or rideshare drivers (e.g., Uber) is not customary in Perth. However, rounding up the fare to the nearest dollar or adding a small amount (e.g., $1-$2 AUD) for excellent service is appreciated.
• Airport Shuttles: Tipping shuttle drivers is not expected, but you can offer $2-$5 AUD if they assist with heavy luggage or provide exceptional service.

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Tipping in Bars and Pubs

• Tipping bartenders is not a common practice in Perth. If you’re particularly impressed with the service, you can round up your bill or leave a small tip (e.g., $1-$2 AUD) in a tip jar if one is available.

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Tipping for Other Services

• Tour Guides: If you take a guided tour and the guide provides an exceptional experience, tipping $10-$20 AUD per person is a generous way to show your appreciation.
• Hairdressers/Beauty Services: Tipping is not expected, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount (e.g., $5-$10 AUD) for excellent service is a kind gesture.
• Delivery Drivers: Tipping food or package delivery drivers is not customary, but you can round up the total or give $2-$5 AUD for exceptional service.

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Special Considerations

1. Cultural Norms: Australians generally value equality, and tipping is not seen as a necessity due to the country’s fair wage system. Service staff are paid well compared to many other countries, so tipping is more of a bonus than a requirement.
2. Card Payments: If you’re paying by card, some establishments may have an option to add a tip during the payment process. This is entirely optional.
3. Public Holidays: On public holidays, some restaurants and cafes may charge a surcharge (e.g., 10-15%) to cover higher wages for staff. This is clearly stated on the menu or bill, and tipping on top of this is not expected.
4. Group Dining: For large groups, some restaurants may include a service charge (e.g., 10%) in the bill. Check for this before deciding to tip.

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Summary

• Tipping in Perth is not a cultural norm, and service staff do not expect tips.
• If you wish to tip, it’s seen as a token of appreciation for exceptional service rather than an obligation.
• Modest tips (5-10% of the bill or small fixed amounts) are sufficient in most cases.
• Always check your bill for service charges before tipping, especially in restaurants or for group bookings.

By understanding these practices, you can navigate Perth’s tipping culture with confidence and avoid any awkward situations. Enjoy your visit to this beautiful city!