Wedding Bar Services Australia

Australian wedding bar packages typically run $60–$120 per person for 4–6 hours of service. Beer-and-wine-only packages sit at the lower end; full bar with spirits, signature cocktails, and Champagne for toasts sits at the upper. For a 100-guest wedding, a typical bar line lands $6,000–$12,000 in addition to venue and catering. RSA-trained staffing, glassware, and ice are usually included; confirm in writing.

Sometimes — depends on the venue. Dry-hire venues (private estates, marquees, working farms) usually allow BYO with a corkage fee per bottle plus a service-staff hire. Most hotels, ballrooms, and licensed venues don't allow BYO at all, or restrict it to a curated wine list with high corkage. Vineyards often require their own wines be served alongside any BYO. Read the BYO clause carefully before assuming the option is open.

Many Australian wedding caterers offer inclusive drinks packages (per-head, 4–6 hours, RSA staff included). Others handle food only and contract a separate beverage caterer. Dry-hire venues often need a dedicated bar contractor on top of the food caterer. The right call depends on your venue and catering setup — confirm at the menu meeting whether the caterer's package covers bar service or whether bar is a separate booking.

Corkage is the per-bottle fee a venue charges when you supply your own alcohol. Australian wedding corkage typically runs $15–$25 per bottle for wine and $5–$10 per bottle for beer, with separate fees for spirits. Some venues also charge a flat per-head BYO service fee on top of corkage. Always quote corkage by total expected bottle count for a true comparison against the venue's package — sometimes the package wins, sometimes BYO does.

A typical Australian wedding bar runs at one bartender per 50–60 guests for fixed bars; per 30–40 guests for high-throughput cocktail receptions or signature-cocktail features. For a 100-guest wedding, two bartenders is the comfortable minimum; three bartenders is the right call if you're running a cocktail-style reception or two satellite bars. Brief the format and guest count together so the staffing matches the night's flow.

For dry-hire venues, you may need a one-day liquor licence in your name — the bar contractor usually lodges it for you, but the responsibility sits with the host. The bar service should also carry public-liability insurance and bring RSA-trained staff (Responsible Service of Alcohol). Confirm in writing who lodges the licence, who carries the insurance, and that all serving staff hold current RSA certification before the contract is signed.