How much to tip hotel housekeeping in Australia (2026 Guide)
A$2–5 per night at upscale hotels; nothing at budget
Tipping calculator
Cultural notes
Lonely Planet notes "it is not standard practice to tip hotel cleaning staff or porters" in Australia, but for exemplary service A$5/day is a reasonable gesture. At five-star international chains in Sydney, Melbourne and at luxury Queensland resorts, leaving a small cash tip with a thank-you note is appreciated by housekeepers (many of whom serve an international guest base). At motels, serviced apartments and budget hotels, no tip is expected.
Common mistakes
Leaving loose coins on a bedside table without a note — housekeepers will not take it because they cannot tell if it is a tip or stray change.
Frequently asked questions
Should I tip at the end of the stay or daily?
Daily is better because shifts rotate.
Is it rude to tip in Australian dollars from currency exchange?
No, AUD cash is preferred over foreign notes.
Tipping other services in Australia
- Sit-down restaurantRound up to nearest A$5–10, or 10% at upmarket venues
- Counter / takeawayNo tip; drop coins in the jar if you want
- CaféDrop coins in the tip jar, or nothing
- BarGenerally nothing; offer to "buy them a drink" for great service
- PorterA$2–5 per bag at upscale hotels; nothing elsewhere
- ConciergeNothing routinely; A$10–20 for a meaningful favour
- TaxiRound up to nearest A$5 or A$10
- RideshareOptional in-app tip A$1–5; most riders leave nothing
- Food deliveryOptional in-app tip A$2–5 for difficult orders
- Grocery deliveryGenerally nothing; A$2–5 only for very large orders
- HairdresserA$5–20 for an excellent cut/colour; many do not tip at all
- SpaNothing routinely; A$10–20 for exceptional treatment
- Tour guideA$10–20 per person full-day; A$2–5 short walking tours
- Tattoo artist10–20% in major-city studios; flat A$20–50 for smaller pieces
- ValetA$2–5 cash on car return
- Airport baggageA$2–5 per bag if a porter assists (rare)
- BuskerA$1–5 in the hat if you stop to listen
- MoversNo cash tip; offer cold drinks, snacks or lunch
- TradespersonNo tip; cup of tea / cold drink is the norm
Last verified: · Sources: lonelyplanet.com, australia.com