A humble breakfast of poached eggs and bacon on toast, a staple in many Australian households and cafes, has recently become a symbol of the escalating cost of living crisis.

A cafe's exorbitant pricing for this simple dish has sparked a nationwide conversation about the affordability of everyday essentials.

Tania Lewis, a holistic therapist, was visiting Busselton—a popular tourist destination in WA's southwest—when she decided to indulge in a seemingly modest breakfast at her hotel.

However, the $19 price tag for the basic meal left her, and many others, astounded.

Tania Lewis shared her disbelief at the $19 brunch she got. Credit: @TaniaLe84494434 / X (formerly Twitter)

The meal consisted of two poached eggs, two slices of white bread, a couple of rashers of bacon, and two sachets of Devondale natural butter. To add to the dismay, her $10 orange juice was served warm and without ice.

Taking to social media to express her disbelief, Lewis posted a photo of her meal with the caption, '$19 breakfast in Busselton. Would you pay for this?'

The response was swift and divided. Some sympathised with her shock.

‘Doesn't seem that long ago that this would have been $10 or $12 tops!’ a user replied.

Another added: ‘No way, that’s appalling.’

One user said that Busselton was a ‘tourist town’ that loved ripping visitors off.

‘To be honest, that is overpriced, they said.

Another said, ‘At least it’s real butter,’ to which Lewis replied, ‘Bonus. I got what I paid for.’

Others pointed out the hidden costs of running a cafe, such as labour, rent, utilities, and insurance.

‘Cost of produce, plus cost for labour (at least three people) plus rent, plus cleaning costs, plus electricity, plus insurance, plus tourist tax levy—and so the list goes on,’ one said.

‘If you don’t like paying to be served with what you asked for, then stay at home.’

Lewis replied that she never said the meal wasn’t tasty, but she provided a snapshot of ‘Australia’s inflation’.

The incident has highlighted a broader issue that many Australians are facing: the rising cost of living.

With inflation rates soaring, the price of groceries, utilities, and dining out has increased significantly, putting a strain on household budgets. The Australian Bureau of Statistics is set to release the latest inflation figures soon, with economists predicting a slight decrease from 4.9 per cent to 4.5 per cent.

The Treasury has forecasted that inflation will slow to 3.75 per cent this financial year and further to 2.75 per cent in the following year.

How to Navigate the Rising Cost of Living

While the government and economists grapple with the larger economic issues, there are steps individuals can take to manage their personal finances in the face of rising costs.

Budgeting is more important than ever. By keeping track of income and expenses, you can identify areas where you can cut back and save money.

Shopping smarter can help. This could mean buying in bulk, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or switching to cheaper brands or alternatives.

Cooking at home, as many of the respondents to Lewis's tweet suggested, can also save money. Not only can you control the cost of the ingredients, but you can also ensure the quality of the food you eat.

Finally, staying informed about economic trends and financial news can help you make better decisions about your money. News of price hikes and inflation do translate to higher costs down the line, including labour, as some users pointed out in Lewis’ case.

​

Aside from poached eggs, fish and chips are also long-time Aussie favourites. But with the glooming cost-of-living crisis, those days of affordable and delicious family meals may be in jeopardy because of the looming price hike.

A fish and chip shop had recently been the talk of the town after a customer shared photos of its changing menu board prices over five years.

Several customers and online users were met with shock and sadness at the price hike of their beloved favourite. Read more about the story here.

Key Takeaways

• A Western Australian cafe's hefty charge for a simple breakfast has brought attention to the nation's cost of living inflation.
• Tania Lewis, a holistic therapist, expressed her disappointment on social media over a $19 poached eggs and bacon meal and a $10 warm orange juice without ice.
• The post sparked various reactions, with some criticising the high price and others defending the cafe's costs considering the expenses they incur.
• The incident serves as an indicator of Australia's inflationary pressures, with the Australian Bureau of Statistics scheduled to release updated figures.

What are your thoughts on the rising cost of living, members? Have you noticed an increase in the cost of your favourite breakfast items? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.

 

[DLHM]

Yeah, the cost of the breakfast for sure was a ripoff. Many “tourist towns” can be.
Busselton has made many advances in its tourist town image. Unfortunately there are going to be those businesses that will try to get away with charging exorbitant prices. If there’s a menu out from if the restaurant or cafe, check the prices. Not all eateries are that expensive. There are plenty to choose from.
I do not work for the Busselton Tourist Bureau. But I do visit there a couple of times a year.

 

[Singomate]

A humble breakfast of poached eggs and bacon on toast, a staple in many Australian households and cafes, has recently become a symbol of the escalating cost of living crisis.

A cafe's exorbitant pricing for this simple dish has sparked a nationwide conversation about the affordability of everyday essentials.

Tania Lewis, a holistic therapist, was visiting Busselton—a popular tourist destination in WA's southwest—when she decided to indulge in a seemingly modest breakfast at her hotel.

However, the $19 price tag for the basic meal left her, and many others, astounded.

View attachment 38891

Tania Lewis shared her disbelief at the $19 brunch she got. Credit: @TaniaLe84494434 / X (formerly Twitter)

The meal consisted of two poached eggs, two slices of white bread, a couple of rashers of bacon, and two sachets of Devondale natural butter. To add to the dismay, her $10 orange juice was served warm and without ice.

Taking to social media to express her disbelief, Lewis posted a photo of her meal with the caption, '$19 breakfast in Busselton. Would you pay for this?'

The response was swift and divided. Some sympathised with her shock.

‘Doesn't seem that long ago that this would have been $10 or $12 tops!’ a user replied.

Another added: ‘No way, that’s appalling.’

One user said that Busselton was a ‘tourist town’ that loved ripping visitors off.

‘To be honest, that is overpriced, they said.

Another said, ‘At least it’s real butter,’ to which Lewis replied, ‘Bonus. I got what I paid for.’

Others pointed out the hidden costs of running a cafe, such as labour, rent, utilities, and insurance.

‘Cost of produce, plus cost for labour (at least three people) plus rent, plus cleaning costs, plus electricity, plus insurance, plus tourist tax levy—and so the list goes on,’ one said.

‘If you don’t like paying to be served with what you asked for, then stay at home.’

Lewis replied that she never said the meal wasn’t tasty, but she provided a snapshot of ‘Australia’s inflation’.

The incident has highlighted a broader issue that many Australians are facing: the rising cost of living.

With inflation rates soaring, the price of groceries, utilities, and dining out has increased significantly, putting a strain on household budgets. The Australian Bureau of Statistics is set to release the latest inflation figures soon, with economists predicting a slight decrease from 4.9 per cent to 4.5 per cent.

The Treasury has forecasted that inflation will slow to 3.75 per cent this financial year and further to 2.75 per cent in the following year.

How to Navigate the Rising Cost of Living

While the government and economists grapple with the larger economic issues, there are steps individuals can take to manage their personal finances in the face of rising costs.

Budgeting is more important than ever. By keeping track of income and expenses, you can identify areas where you can cut back and save money.

Shopping smarter can help. This could mean buying in bulk, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or switching to cheaper brands or alternatives.

Cooking at home, as many of the respondents to Lewis's tweet suggested, can also save money. Not only can you control the cost of the ingredients, but you can also ensure the quality of the food you eat.

Finally, staying informed about economic trends and financial news can help you make better decisions about your money. News of price hikes and inflation do translate to higher costs down the line, including labour, as some users pointed out in Lewis’ case.

View attachment 38894​

Aside from poached eggs, fish and chips are also long-time Aussie favourites. But with the glooming cost-of-living crisis, those days of affordable and delicious family meals may be in jeopardy because of the looming price hike.

A fish and chip shop had recently been the talk of the town after a customer shared photos of its changing menu board prices over five years.

Several customers and online users were met with shock and sadness at the price hike of their beloved favourite. Read more about the story here.

Key Takeaways

• A Western Australian cafe's hefty charge for a simple breakfast has brought attention to the nation's cost of living inflation.
• Tania Lewis, a holistic therapist, expressed her disappointment on social media over a $19 poached eggs and bacon meal and a $10 warm orange juice without ice.
• The post sparked various reactions, with some criticising the high price and others defending the cafe's costs considering the expenses they incur.
• The incident serves as an indicator of Australia's inflationary pressures, with the Australian Bureau of Statistics scheduled to release updated figures.

What are your thoughts on the rising cost of living, members? Have you noticed an increase in the cost of your favourite breakfast items? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.

If it's so bloody expensive to run the place get out of the game and stop trying to justify these ridiculous prices by blaming everyone else for your greed .

 

[Pat T]

We always check menu prices before going into clubs, pubs ,restaurants and cafes. If we think they’re overpriced , then we keep walking.

 

[Glenys R]

I think everyone tries to take advantage of inflation and thinks ""shove up the price to the limit everyone expects it and you can always blame inflation"". Woolworths is a disgrace at the moment with the price of some items doubling - lots of items go up every week. I live at Woodford so hope the manager of our local Woolworths is reading this!!!

 

[DLHM]

If it's so bloody expensive to run the place get out of the game and stop trying to justify these ridiculous prices by blaming everyone else for your greed .

Easier said than done. Some establishments are really trying to add to the community and they know if customers aren’t willing to pay the price, they’ll go elsewhere. Some are greedy, some are not. Just human nature.

 

[maxesmum]

At least it’s not been smushed up and green. Apparently,that jacks the price up even more!

 

[dadlikespelicans]

costs for everyone are spiraling, its hard staying in business. If you dont ike the price, go to Maccas.

 

[IAN3005]

costs for everyone are spiraling, its hard staying in business. If you dont ike the price, go to Maccas.

Don't eat out is what I say..... what is wrong with home cooked????

 

[Jennylolo]

why pay for that? Honestly though, you get to see the prices before you receive the meal. I don't get why they are complaining when it's time to pay or after they have paid. Don't like the price- don't buy.

 

[trakn]

Went to WA in 2009 and was amazed at the prices they charged for food. Walking around Freo we decided to have pasta. Walked into a restaurant with half a dozen patrons. Our group of four were charged $218 for 3 serves of garlic bread,4 plates of various pasta dishes 3 beers and 3 soft drinks.
Talking about it later besides wages in WA being higher than SA there was an over abundance of restaurants ,cafes, hotels ,bistros.
Fish and chips in freo were reasonably priced at the time.
Unfortunately today if you don't want to be surprised by prices check or ask first

 

[DLHM]

Don't eat out is what I say..... what is wrong with home cooked????

Home cooked is best for taste and nutrition, but sometimes it’s nice to have a break.

 

[IAN3005]

Surely she would have looked at a menu and seen the price before ordering????

 

[DLHM]

Surely she would have looked at a menu and seen the price before ordering????

You’d think so. I’ve left eateries when I felt the prices were unreasonable.

 

[IAN3005]

Home cooked is best for taste and nutrition, but sometimes it’s nice to have a break.

You pay for 'breaks'

 

[Dougy55]

A humble breakfast of poached eggs and bacon on toast, a staple in many Australian households and cafes, has recently become a symbol of the escalating cost of living crisis.

A cafe's exorbitant pricing for this simple dish has sparked a nationwide conversation about the affordability of everyday essentials.

Tania Lewis, a holistic therapist, was visiting Busselton—a popular tourist destination in WA's southwest—when she decided to indulge in a seemingly modest breakfast at her hotel.

However, the $19 price tag for the basic meal left her, and many others, astounded.

View attachment 38891

Tania Lewis shared her disbelief at the $19 brunch she got. Credit: @TaniaLe84494434 / X (formerly Twitter)

The meal consisted of two poached eggs, two slices of white bread, a couple of rashers of bacon, and two sachets of Devondale natural butter. To add to the dismay, her $10 orange juice was served warm and without ice.

Taking to social media to express her disbelief, Lewis posted a photo of her meal with the caption, '$19 breakfast in Busselton. Would you pay for this?'

The response was swift and divided. Some sympathised with her shock.

‘Doesn't seem that long ago that this would have been $10 or $12 tops!’ a user replied.

Another added: ‘No way, that’s appalling.’

One user said that Busselton was a ‘tourist town’ that loved ripping visitors off.

‘To be honest, that is overpriced, they said.

Another said, ‘At least it’s real butter,’ to which Lewis replied, ‘Bonus. I got what I paid for.’

Others pointed out the hidden costs of running a cafe, such as labour, rent, utilities, and insurance.

‘Cost of produce, plus cost for labour (at least three people) plus rent, plus cleaning costs, plus electricity, plus insurance, plus tourist tax levy—and so the list goes on,’ one said.

‘If you don’t like paying to be served with what you asked for, then stay at home.’

Lewis replied that she never said the meal wasn’t tasty, but she provided a snapshot of ‘Australia’s inflation’.

The incident has highlighted a broader issue that many Australians are facing: the rising cost of living.

With inflation rates soaring, the price of groceries, utilities, and dining out has increased significantly, putting a strain on household budgets. The Australian Bureau of Statistics is set to release the latest inflation figures soon, with economists predicting a slight decrease from 4.9 per cent to 4.5 per cent.

The Treasury has forecasted that inflation will slow to 3.75 per cent this financial year and further to 2.75 per cent in the following year.

How to Navigate the Rising Cost of Living

While the government and economists grapple with the larger economic issues, there are steps individuals can take to manage their personal finances in the face of rising costs.

Budgeting is more important than ever. By keeping track of income and expenses, you can identify areas where you can cut back and save money.

Shopping smarter can help. This could mean buying in bulk, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or switching to cheaper brands or alternatives.

Cooking at home, as many of the respondents to Lewis's tweet suggested, can also save money. Not only can you control the cost of the ingredients, but you can also ensure the quality of the food you eat.

Finally, staying informed about economic trends and financial news can help you make better decisions about your money. News of price hikes and inflation do translate to higher costs down the line, including labour, as some users pointed out in Lewis’ case.

View attachment 38894​

Aside from poached eggs, fish and chips are also long-time Aussie favourites. But with the glooming cost-of-living crisis, those days of affordable and delicious family meals may be in jeopardy because of the looming price hike.

A fish and chip shop had recently been the talk of the town after a customer shared photos of its changing menu board prices over five years.

Several customers and online users were met with shock and sadness at the price hike of their beloved favourite. Read more about the story here.

Key Takeaways

• A Western Australian cafe's hefty charge for a simple breakfast has brought attention to the nation's cost of living inflation.
• Tania Lewis, a holistic therapist, expressed her disappointment on social media over a $19 poached eggs and bacon meal and a $10 warm orange juice without ice.
• The post sparked various reactions, with some criticising the high price and others defending the cafe's costs considering the expenses they incur.
• The incident serves as an indicator of Australia's inflationary pressures, with the Australian Bureau of Statistics scheduled to release updated figures.

What are your thoughts on the rising cost of living, members? Have you noticed an increase in the cost of your favourite breakfast items? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.

I recently had a similar experience. Whilst visiting Esperance in WA ,I Ordered a seafood pizza at the cost of $30 delivered only to findout that it was over sauced,had to much cheese and where was the seafood,a few miserable prawns and muscles was all there was and when Isay a few , I mean they were almost non existant..A tottaly unappetising mess that was very disappointing.

 

[maggiej]

I am not in the catering industry but I realise that businesses have to charge the cost of producing an item. Cooking one person's breakfast takes time and with the cost of wages constantly going up then this has to be taken into consideration. I don't think $18 for the breakfast is too dear. I have traveled to many places and I think this is comparable to anywhere I have been, As for the Orang Juice I have never had ice with mine but it was cool. How much is a can of juice probably similar to what she paid

 

[Joydie]

A humble breakfast of poached eggs and bacon on toast, a staple in many Australian households and cafes, has recently become a symbol of the escalating cost of living crisis.

A cafe's exorbitant pricing for this simple dish has sparked a nationwide conversation about the affordability of everyday essentials.

Tania Lewis, a holistic therapist, was visiting Busselton—a popular tourist destination in WA's southwest—when she decided to indulge in a seemingly modest breakfast at her hotel.

However, the $19 price tag for the basic meal left many others, astounded.

View attachment 38891

Tania Lewis shared her disbelief at the $19 brunch she got. Credit: @TaniaLe84494434 / X (formerly Twitter)

The meal consisted of two poached eggs, two slices of white bread, a couple of rashers of bacon, and two sachets of Devondale natural butter. To add to the dismay, her $10 orange juice was served warm and without ice.

Taking to social media to express her disbelief, Lewis posted a photo of her meal with the caption, '$19 breakfast in Busselton. Would you pay for this?'

The response was swift and divided. Some sympathised with her shock.

‘Doesn't seem that long ago that this would have been $10 or $12 tops!’ a user replied.

Another added: ‘No way, that’s appalling.’

One user said that Busselton was a ‘tourist town’ that loved ripping visitors off.

‘To be honest, that is overpriced, they said.

Another said, ‘At least it’s real butter,’ to which Lewis replied, ‘Bonus. I got what I paid for.’

Others pointed out the hidden costs of running a cafe, such as labour, rent, utilities, and insurance.

‘Cost of produce, plus cost for labour (at least three people) plus rent, plus cleaning costs, plus electricity, plus insurance, plus tourist tax levy—and so the list goes on,’ one said.

‘If you don’t like paying to be served with what you asked for, then stay at home.’

Lewis replied that she never said the meal wasn’t tasty, but she provided a snapshot of ‘Australia’s inflation’.

The incident has highlighted a broader issue that many Australians are facing: the rising cost of living.

With inflation rates soaring, the price of groceries, utilities, and dining out has increased significantly, putting a strain on household budgets. The Australian Bureau of Statistics is set to release the latest inflation figures soon, with economists predicting a slight decrease from 4.9 per cent to 4.5 per cent.

The Treasury has forecasted that inflation will slow to 3.75 per cent this financial year and further to 2.75 per cent in the following year.

How to Navigate the Rising Cost of Living

While the government and economists grapple with the larger economic issues, there are steps individuals can take to manage their personal finances in the face of rising costs.

Budgeting is more important than ever. By keeping track of income and expenses, you can identify areas where you can cut back and save money.

Shopping smarter can help. This could mean buying in bulk, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or switching to cheaper brands or alternatives.

Cooking at home, as many of the respondents to Lewis's tweet suggested, can also save money. Not only can you control the cost of the ingredients, but you can also ensure the quality of the food you eat.

Finally, staying informed about economic trends and financial news can help you make better decisions about your money. News of price hikes and inflation do translate to higher costs down the line, including labour, as some users pointed out in Lewis’ case.

View attachment 38894​

Aside from poached eggs, fish and chips are also long-time Aussie favourites. But with the glooming cost-of-living crisis, those days of affordable and delicious family meals may be in jeopardy because of the looming price hike.

A fish and chip shop had recently been the talk of the town after a customer shared photos of its changing menu board prices over five years.

Several customers and online users were met with shock and sadness at the price hike of their beloved favourite. Read more about the story here.

Key Takeaways

• A Western Australian cafe's hefty charge for a simple breakfast has brought attention to the nation's cost of living inflation.
• Tania Lewis, a holistic therapist, expressed her disappointment on social media over a $19 poached eggs and bacon meal and a $10 warm orange juice without ice.
• The post sparked various reactions, with some criticising the high price and others defending the cafe's costs considering the expenses they incur.
• The incident serves as an indicator of Australia's inflationary pressures, with the Australian Bureau of Statistics scheduled to release updated figures.

What are your thoughts on the rising cost of living, members? Have you noticed an increase in the cost of your favourite breakfast items? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.

My husband's carer is here at present, and she's familiar with Busselton. She said that pretty much everything's expensive there because people are happy to spend more when they're on holiday.

We rarely eat out, but I did go out for a lovely mother and son catchup breakfast last weekend. I really wouldn't say $19 is expensive for this. I probably wouldn't be happy paying $19, but cafes and restaurants have the same problems as the rest of us - soaring food prices. In order to continue trading, they have to increase prices.

 

[Lisbeth]

A humble breakfast of poached eggs and bacon on toast, a staple in many Australian households and cafes, has recently become a symbol of the escalating cost of living crisis.

A cafe's exorbitant pricing for this simple dish has sparked a nationwide conversation about the affordability of everyday essentials.

Tania Lewis, a holistic therapist, was visiting Busselton—a popular tourist destination in WA's southwest—when she decided to indulge in a seemingly modest breakfast at her hotel.

However, the $19 price tag for the basic meal left her, and many others, astounded.

View attachment 38891

Tania Lewis shared her disbelief at the $19 brunch she got. Credit: @TaniaLe84494434 / X (formerly Twitter)

The meal consisted of two poached eggs, two slices of white bread, a couple of rashers of bacon, and two sachets of Devondale natural butter. To add to the dismay, her $10 orange juice was served warm and without ice.

Taking to social media to express her disbelief, Lewis posted a photo of her meal with the caption, '$19 breakfast in Busselton. Would you pay for this?'

The response was swift and divided. Some sympathised with her shock.

‘Doesn't seem that long ago that this would have been $10 or $12 tops!’ a user replied.

Another added: ‘No way, that’s appalling.’

One user said that Busselton was a ‘tourist town’ that loved ripping visitors off.

‘To be honest, that is overpriced, they said.

Another said, ‘At least it’s real butter,’ to which Lewis replied, ‘Bonus. I got what I paid for.’

Others pointed out the hidden costs of running a cafe, such as labour, rent, utilities, and insurance.

‘Cost of produce, plus cost for labour (at least three people) plus rent, plus cleaning costs, plus electricity, plus insurance, plus tourist tax levy—and so the list goes on,’ one said.

‘If you don’t like paying to be served with what you asked for, then stay at home.’

Lewis replied that she never said the meal wasn’t tasty, but she provided a snapshot of ‘Australia’s inflation’.

The incident has highlighted a broader issue that many Australians are facing: the rising cost of living.

With inflation rates soaring, the price of groceries, utilities, and dining out has increased significantly, putting a strain on household budgets. The Australian Bureau of Statistics is set to release the latest inflation figures soon, with economists predicting a slight decrease from 4.9 per cent to 4.5 per cent.

The Treasury has forecasted that inflation will slow to 3.75 per cent this financial year and further to 2.75 per cent in the following year.

How to Navigate the Rising Cost of Living

While the government and economists grapple with the larger economic issues, there are steps individuals can take to manage their personal finances in the face of rising costs.

Budgeting is more important than ever. By keeping track of income and expenses, you can identify areas where you can cut back and save money.

Shopping smarter can help. This could mean buying in bulk, taking advantage of sales and discounts, or switching to cheaper brands or alternatives.

Cooking at home, as many of the respondents to Lewis's tweet suggested, can also save money. Not only can you control the cost of the ingredients, but you can also ensure the quality of the food you eat.

Finally, staying informed about economic trends and financial news can help you make better decisions about your money. News of price hikes and inflation do translate to higher costs down the line, including labour, as some users pointed out in Lewis’ case.

View attachment 38894​

Aside from poached eggs, fish and chips are also long-time Aussie favourites. But with the glooming cost-of-living crisis, those days of affordable and delicious family meals may be in jeopardy because of the looming price hike.

A fish and chip shop had recently been the talk of the town after a customer shared photos of its changing menu board prices over five years.

Several customers and online users were met with shock and sadness at the price hike of their beloved favourite. Read more about the story here.

Key Takeaways

• A Western Australian cafe's hefty charge for a simple breakfast has brought attention to the nation's cost of living inflation.
• Tania Lewis, a holistic therapist, expressed her disappointment on social media over a $19 poached eggs and bacon meal and a $10 warm orange juice without ice.
• The post sparked various reactions, with some criticising the high price and others defending the cafe's costs considering the expenses they incur.
• The incident serves as an indicator of Australia's inflationary pressures, with the Australian Bureau of Statistics scheduled to release updated figures.

What are your thoughts on the rising cost of living, members? Have you noticed an increase in the cost of your favourite breakfast items? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.

I have noticed that in the last 5years the price of eggs has doubled. So too has bread, bacon and butter. Probably the shop's rent, insurance and wage bill has risen nearly that also. So when you look at a $12 brunch, expect it to cost more. I am sorry for the Cafes BUT we All need to eat at home. For me, eating out or take away, is a twice a year Special occasion.

 

[Jarred Santos]

Went to WA in 2009 and was amazed at the prices they charged for food. Walking around Freo we decided to have pasta. Walked into a restaurant with half a dozen patrons. Our group of four were charged $218 for 3 serves of garlic bread,4 plates of various pasta dishes 3 beers and 3 soft drinks.
Talking about it later besides wages in WA being higher than SA there was an over abundance of restaurants ,cafes, hotels ,bistros.
Fish and chips in freo were reasonably priced at the time.
Unfortunately today if you don't want to be surprised by prices check or ask first

I wonder what the same meal would cost today