Dining out service charge.
Posted by: bev1410
13th Jan 2026 04:14pm
I went out for a meal with some family members, my treat. Middle of the road food and service. When the bill arrived, I saw there was a 10% service charge, which I wasn't aware off being automatically added to my bill. The service actually hadn't been great. I questioned the charge, they said it's all part of their service. I argued the point, service/tips are down to the customers discretion. They withdrew their service charge of my bill. Do you think I was within my rights to not paying their service charge?
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Comments 2
Caperteewaratah
Surpise charges should not be added to bills so that you discover it (maybe if you read it) at the till, as this is rather sneaky and underhanded.
Tipping is not part of Australian life and is a way of American workers trying to get some decent pay for their work - Citizens of USA are not paid much comparedt to Australia. If you have been to USA the idea of having to "tip" to make up workers wages, is rather unpleasant.
When I got out, I like to know what is the actual cost of the meal or drink and have it clearly laid out on the menu. Not with some sentence in tiny writing which may say other charges.
But what is the charge for really?
Deceptive to say the least.
I can understand if the eatery has these charges laid out clearly for weekend penalty rates and it is stated, but not some surprise charge you discover when it comes to pay.
Good thinking and reasoning on asking what is it for at the till. Made them think.
chickenman
yes ! you were within your rights. the cost of any meal should include any other charges applicable.