Few snacks hold a place in Aussie hearts quite like a certain chocolate-covered biscuit, known for sparking joy at afternoon teas and family catch-ups.

For generations, it’s been a go-to treat—so familiar, it feels like part of the national identity.

But now, one shopper’s quiet discovery has raised eyebrows across the country, triggering fresh questions about what we’re really getting in every pack.


It all started when a social media user posted a photo of a Chewy Caramel Tim Tam packet, lamenting that there were only nine biscuits inside—and, shockingly, a whopping 42 per cent of the pack was just empty space!

'Tim Tam Shrinkflation,' the user declared, pointing out that you could probably fit 17 in the same pack without the plastic spacers between each biscuit.


The post quickly gained traction, with fellow Aussies chiming in to share their own disappointment.

'They should make it illegal for companies to sell half-serving packs,' one commenter fumed.

Another added, 'I don’t buy them anymore because of the price.' And, in true Aussie fashion, someone dubbed the whole situation a 'Tim Sham!'


But before we all start boycotting the biscuit aisle, some commenters pointed out that this isn’t exactly a new trick.

In fact, the number of Tim Tams per pack has always varied depending on the flavour.

Special varieties—like Chewy Caramel, Double Coat, and White Chocolate—typically come with just nine biscuits, while the classic Original and Dark Chocolate flavours offer 11 for the same price.

A quick check at Woolies confirms it: all standard Tim Tam packs are $6, but the number of biscuits inside ranges from 9 to 11 depending on the flavour.

Step up to the deluxe range (think Salted Caramel Brownie, Dark Choc Mint, Cafe Latte, or Decadent Triple Choc), and you’ll pay $6.50 for just eight biscuits. And if you’re gluten-free? That’ll be $4.95 for a mere 7 biscuits.

Arnott’s, the company behind Tim Tams, has confirmed that this has always been the case.

'The Tim Tam family is comprised of several ranges. Each range contains a different number of biscuits and always has,' a spokesperson explained.

'The number of biscuits in each pack, and price differences, reflect the cost and complexity of ingredients contained in each pack. To help consumers avoid any potential confusion, the gram size and number of biscuits are clearly displayed on the front of each pack.'

For many of us, the idea of getting fewer Tim Tams for our hard-earned dollars feels a bit un-Australian.

After all, sharing a pack with friends or family is a time-honoured tradition—and nobody wants to be the one left without a biscuit!

But on the flip side, Arnott’s is being upfront about the pack sizes and weights, so it’s not exactly a case of pulling the wool over our eyes.

Still, it pays to be a savvy shopper: always check the number of biscuits and the total weight before you buy, especially if you’re planning to share (or, let’s be honest, just want to make sure you get your fair share).
Have you noticed the shrinking Tim Tam packs? Do you feel like you’re getting less for your money these days, or are you happy to pay a little extra for your favourite flavour? And most importantly—what’s your go-to Tim Tam variety? Share your thoughts, tips, and Tim Tam memories in the comments below.

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