Wedding Catering Costs in Australia (2026)
Catering and drinks are the second biggest expense at most Australian weddings. Expect to pay $100-250 per person for food and beverages, with the total depending heavily on guest count, service style, and drink package.
11 April 2026 · Last reviewed April 2026
Average catering cost in Australia
Range: A$6,000 – A$20,000
What you’re paying for
Cocktail-style reception
Per person — passed canapes and food stations
5-6 food items, standing format, shorter event duration
A$70 – A$120
Plated dinner (3-course)
Per person — sit-down alternating service
Entree, main, dessert, bread roll, tea and coffee
A$100 – A$180
Beverage package (5 hours)
Per person — house to premium tier
House wines, beer, soft drinks. Spirits extra at premium tier.
A$40 – A$90
Late-night snack
Per person — pizza, sliders, or grazing
One or two items served after 10pm
A$10 – A$30
Tasting session
Pre-wedding menu tasting for the couple
Usually complimentary with bookings over $10K
A$0 – A$500
How to save on catering
Choose cocktail over plated
Cocktail-style receptions cost 20-30% less and create a more social atmosphere. Guests often prefer it.
Limit the bar to beer and wine
Dropping spirits from the package saves $15-25 per person. Most guests are happy with beer, wine, and a signature cocktail.
Reduce the guest list by 20
At $150/head, cutting 20 guests saves $3,000 on catering alone.
Skip the entree and add canapes
Arrival canapes + main + dessert feels generous and saves $15-25 per person over a 3-course meal.
Common questions
How much does wedding catering cost per person in Australia?
$100-180 per person for food, plus $40-90 per person for drinks. Total per-head cost is typically $150-250 including everything.
Is a food truck cheaper than traditional catering?
Usually yes, by 20-40%. Food trucks work best for casual venues and smaller weddings (under 80 guests). Check with your venue about access and setup requirements.
Should I do a sit-down dinner or buffet?
Buffet is typically 10-15% cheaper than plated service but requires more floor space. Family-style sharing platters are a popular middle ground that feels generous without the buffet setup.
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Ivory Lane Editorial
The Ivory Lane editorial team covers wedding planning, budgeting, and vendor advice for Australian couples. Our guides are reviewed regularly to reflect current pricing and industry practice.