An Australian man has criticised a pub after its ordering system asked him to leave a tip before he had received his food or spoken to any staff, reigniting debate about creeping tipping culture in Australia. He raised the complaint in an online forum, arguing that Australians already pay hospitality workers a proper award wage and shouldn't be pressured into American-style tipping, particularly when ordering and collecting food themselves via a QR-code system. His post drew widespread support, with many commenters urging people to decline tips without guilt and some hospitality workers noting that such prompted tips often go to the business rather than staff.

The incident took place at a pub where the man was ordering two chicken parmigianas and beers, when an automatic screen requested up to a 20 per cent tip. Experts suggest the practice reflects businesses using the same payment software as in the US and leaning on customer goodwill to offset thin profit margins. Under Australian consumer law, automatic tipping prompts are allowed provided customers are informed and can opt out. However, Professor Steve Worthington of Swinburne University noted that a Reserve Bank of Australia ban on card surcharges, taking effect from 1 October, could change tipping behaviour, since tips are currently often subject to surcharges too.