How Much Does Wedding Catering Cost in Australia? A Comprehensive Guide by Safehands Catering

Planning a wedding or event can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to catering. As one of the most memorable parts of any celebration, the food you serve can leave a lasting impression on your guests. But how much does wedding catering actually cost?

At Safehands Catering, with 25 years of experience serving weddings in Sunshine Coast, Gympie, Brisbane, and beyond, we’re here to guide you through the ins and outs of catering costs, ensuring you get the best value for your special day.

What Does a Catering Service Include?

A catering service goes beyond simply providing food. We handle everything from menu planning to ingredient sourcing, preparation, and flawless presentation. Whether it’s a grand sit-down dinner, a buffet, or a cocktail-style event, we ensure each dish is crafted to delight your guests. Our services include:

• Menu Design & Planning – Tailored to your taste and event theme.
• Ingredient Sourcing – Using local, sustainable produce.
• Food Preparation & Delivery – We prepare dishes in advance and deliver fresh to the venue.
• Setup & Service – Depending on your event type, our professional team will serve meals, ensuring smooth service.
• Event Cleanup – Post-event cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your day stress-free.

Wedding catering costs in Australia for 2025

The cost of catering varies depending on the size of the event, guest count, and type of meal. On average, Australian couples spend $5,500 plus staff on catering for approx 50 people, with wedding-specific services averaging around $8,800.

Here’s a breakdown of potential costs:

Catering TypeAverage Cost (Total)

Buffet  $4,000 – $6000
Sit-Down Meal - $7,500 – $12,500
All-Day Events - $9,900 – 15,000


Meal Type Average Price Per Head

Grazing table / Canapes - Finger Foods -$25-30
Basic Buffet One or Gourmet Buffet- $50-65
Hot -Cold Breakfast -$45-55
3-Course plated Meal- $80-100
Gourmet BBQ Buffet -$65-80

Factors That Influence Catering Costs

1. Guest Count – The larger your guest list, the higher the cost. We recommend providing approx final numbers early to get the most accurate quote.
2. Event Type – Formal events often require more planning and service staff, increasing the price.
3. Cuisine & Ingredients – Premium ingredients like eg "seafood" will add to the overall cost.
4. Service Style – Buffet services are typically cheaper, while plated meals require more staffing.
5. Location – Events in cities like Brisbane may incur higher costs compared to smaller towns due to labor and ingredient expenses.

Sit-down wedding meals vs buffet catering pricing – What’s Best for Your Wedding?

• Buffet: Ideal for casual gatherings or large events. Buffets allow flexibility and provide a variety of options for guests.
• Sit-Down Meal: Best for formal weddings. This style creates a luxurious atmosphere, though it comes at a higher cost.
• All-Day Events: For weddings that span the day, all-day catering ensures guests are well-fed from morning to evening

How to Save Money on Wedding Catering

• Opt for Seasonal Menus – Safehands Catering prioritizes locally sourced produce to reduce costs.
• Simplify the Menu – Limit choices to streamline the service preparation process.
• Consider Buffet Over Plated Dinner – Buffets are cost-effective and offer greater variety.
• Combine Packages – Bundle bar services, equipment rentals, and food to receive package discounts.​

Why Professional Catering is Worth the Cost

Hiring a professional caterer like Safehands Catering not only guarantees delicious food but also ensures compliance with health standards, seamless presentation, and guest satisfaction. A well-fed guest is a happy guest, and quality catering reflects positively on your event. 

Booking Your Wedding Catering in 2025

With demand for 2025 wedding dates already rising, we recommend securing your date early. At Safehands Catering, we cater to one function per day, ensuring your wedding receives our full attention. Our focus on personalized service and bespoke menus has earned us wedding industry awards and glowing reviews from couples across Queensland.

📞 Ready to Plan Your Wedding? Contact Us Today!

• Phone: 0412 352 719
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.safehandscatering.com.au

Let us make your wedding day truly unforgettable with food that speaks to your heart and leaves your guests raving for years to come. Safehands Catering – Celebrating 25 Years of Excellence in making events extraordinary!

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