The tip-pool conversation that protects you and your team

Tipping in Australian hospitality is informal but legally regulated. Most disputes are about expectations, not about the money itself.

The four things to write down

1. How tips are collected (cash + EFTPOS).
2. Who shares (FOH, BOH, kitchen porters).
3. The split formula (per hour worked, per role weighting).
4. When and how it’s paid out.

The legal bit

Tips are not part of the award. They’re a venue policy decision. They are taxable income, and your bookkeeper needs to know the split. A one-page policy signed by all staff once a year keeps Fair Work happy and team conversations short.