How much does wedding catering cost?

Amongst all the excitement on your wedding day, you’ll need to stop to have something to eat. In recent years, we’ve seen more emphasis on what food is served at weddings. This leads us to the question: How much does wedding catering cost?

Today’s couples are putting more effort into the food served at their wedding; some choosing the highest quality and best-tasting food on offer – no matter the price! Guests will often remember the food they were served at a wedding, so it’s important to really think about what you will serve to them on the day.

Gone are the traditional days of alternating chicken or the beef. More and more couples are exploring different food options – cocktail catering, food trucks and interactive stations are all trends being celebrated by Australian couples.

But how much should you be setting aside to keep you and your guest’s satisfied and satiated? It can vary broadly from state to state. Those in ACT will see significant savings, but if you’re a NSW couple, you’ll need to stretch your budget a little further.

How much should my wedding catering cost?

Wedding trends are constantly shifting, so we’re not surprised to see the average amount spent on wedding catering has risen over the last few years as more couples hire external services. Our 2025 Annual Easy Weddings Survey explored the wedding catering costs and how much it varies across the country.

NSW: $7,792
VIC: $7,294
SA: $6,584
WA: $5,218
QLD: $4,828
TAS: $4,455
ACT: $3,969

When it comes to wedding catering in Australia, costs can vary significantly depending on where you’re tying the knot. New South Wales tops the list with couples spending an average of $7,792 on catering, closely followed by Victoria at $7,294 and South Australia at $6,584. In Western Australia, the average spend is slightly lower at $5,218, while Queensland couples spend around $4,828.

For those planning a wedding in Tasmania, the average catering cost comes in at $4,455, and in the ACT, it’s the most budget-friendly at just $3,969. These figures highlight how important it is to factor in your location when budgeting for food and drink — and why getting quotes early is key to managing your wedding spend.

What’s included in wedding catering?

Depending on the caterer, these are some of the items included in a catering package.

Food (obviously!)

Wedding food cost and price should be included in your package, depending on your catering style.

Beverages

it’s highly likely your caterer will oversee the beverages, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, depending on the package. If this is the case expect to spend more for these packages. If you have your own venue you could have a choice of doing BYO and pay a corkage fee, or hiring a different supplier or mobile bar for beverages.

Staffing

This includes staff from cooks to servers and bartenders. Staffing will depend on the catering style that you choose as well as the number of guests you have for a wedding. Depending on the type of catering you choose you may also require less staff such as servers. For example, a food truck or buffet option requires fewer servers than a sit-down meal does.

Rentals

Anything from chairs, tables, dishes or glassware can be provided by your caterer. If it doesn’t match your wedding style, you can always hire these rentals with a different supplier, but most venues will provide them.

Extras

Suppliers may charge additional fees and costs like corkage fees or cake cutting.

It’s also important to note that your wedding cake is generally not included in your wedding catering. While your catering may include desserts, you’re better off going to a wedding cake supplier who specialises in that area.

We highly recommend that you have a chat with your chosen catering company and review your contract, so everything is crystal clear and you’re happy with what you are getting.

What type of catering is the most popular?

There are several choices you can have for your catering, so it’s important to figure out what style you’re going to have on your big day.

Alternate drop catering is still the number one choice for couples, making up 42% of weddings. But creeping up the ranks in popularity at 27% is sharing or family style feasting. That is, creating dishes that are placed in the middle of the table and guests can help themselves.

Buffets are taking more of a backseat in popularity, with only 6% of couples opting for this as their wedding catering.  Roving finger food, also known as cocktail style, was chosen by 11% of our respondents.

Whichever style you choose, making sure that your guests are fed on the day is important. Especially if you’re serving alcohol!

Wedding caatering FAQs

1. How much does wedding catering usually cost in Australia?
Catering is one of the biggest wedding expenses, with costs ranging depending on your location and guest count. On average, Australian couples spend between $4,000 and $8,000, with NSW and VIC typically being the most expensive states.

2. What impacts the cost of catering?
Several factors influence your catering cost, including guest numbers, menu style (e.g. cocktail vs. sit-down), beverage packages, staffing, and even venue facilities. Dietary requirements and premium menu choices (like seafood or multiple courses) can also add to the total.

3. What’s cheaper — cocktail, buffet, or sit-down meals?
Generally, cocktail-style receptions can be more affordable as they involve smaller portions and fewer staff, while plated sit-down meals are often more expensive due to the formal service and multiple courses. Buffets usually fall somewhere in the middle.

4. Can I supply my own food or alcohol to save money?
Some venues allow BYO catering or alcohol, which can reduce costs — but there are often corkage or staffing fees involved. Always check with your venue first and be mindful of food safety requirements for DIY catering.

5. Should I include vendors in the catering headcount?
Yes! If you have vendors (like your photographer or band) working through the reception, it’s common courtesy (and often part of their contract) to include vendor meals in your catering plan.

6. What’s a good way to save on catering without compromising?
Limit your guest list, opt for a grazing table or shared platters, go for seasonal/local produce, or choose a brunch, lunch, or weekday wedding — many caterers offer lower rates for non-peak times.

7. How early should I book a wedding caterer?
Aim to lock in your caterer at least 6 to 12 months before your wedding, especially if you’re getting married in peak season or in a popular location.

8. What should I ask a wedding caterer before booking?
Ask about:
– Menu flexibility and dietary options
– Staff-to-guest ratio
– Tableware and equipment inclusions
– Setup/pack-down fees
– Beverage packages
– Cancellation and refund policies