Customer's Viral Receipt Reveals Weekend Fee Drama
A Brisbane diner's Facebook rant about a 7.5% Sunday surcharge at Sandstone Point Hotel has gotten people talking!
The customer shared their receipt showing a $4.95 extra charge on top of their $66 meal, bringing the total to $71.39 with EFTPOS fees.
What's Behind the Sunday Surcharge?
Restaurant and Catering Association CEO Suresh Manickam has stepped in to clear the air.
According to him, these charges aren't just about making extra cash - they're actually covering higher wages for staff working weekends.
"When staff work weekends, they get paid more - up to double their usual wage," Manickam explains. "The surcharge helps cover these extra costs."
Here's What You Need to Know About Weekend Rates
Casual staff get 175% of their normal pay on Sundays
Full-time workers receive 150% on Sundays
Public holidays? That jumps to 250% for casual staff
Full-timers get 225% on public holidays
Social Media Takes Sides
The debate has gotten pretty heated online! Here's what people are saying:
Against the surcharge:
- "If you choose to open on Sundays, suck it up!"
- "That's a rip-off - should be a flat rate"
- "And they expect a tip too?"
Supporting the charge:
- "Happy to pay extra for staff giving up their weekends"
- "As long as it's on the menu, that's fair"
What's Legal and What's Not?
Restaurants can add these charges, but they MUST tell you upfront. Look for notices:
- On the menu
- Around the venue
- When you're ordering
The Bottom Line
While some customers might not love the extra charges, they're a standard part of the hospitality industry - just like corkage fees or group booking charges. The key is being transparent about them!
What do you think about Sunday surcharges?
Are they fair game or should businesses absorb the cost?
