Australian Coffee Consumption in 2026
Why Aussies Still Love Their Daily Brew
Australia’s coffee culture isn’t just alive — it’s evolving. In 2026, the way Australians drink, pay for, and experience coffee reflects broader shifts in lifestyle, spending behaviour, and taste preferences.
Coffee: Still Part of Daily Life
Recent data shows that over 60% of Australians over 18 drink coffee or coffee beverages regularly, with many enjoying it daily or multiple times per day.
Coffee has transitioned from a simple morning ritual to a cultural staple: something social, habitual, and deeply embedded in everyday life.
Market Growth — But With Nuance
While consumers love coffee, the way they consume it is changing:
The Australian coffee market continues to grow steadily, with market values poised to increase through the decade.
Consumers treat specialty coffee as an “affordable luxury”, often prioritising quality over frequent visits.
Ready-to-drink (RTD) coffee products and convenience formats are surging in popularity, appealing especially to younger, on-the-go drinkers.
Changing Consumption Behaviours
Despite coffee’s broad popularity:
Café visits have softened slightly, with total spend and frequency dipping in some reports, but average spend per visit rising — showing Aussies will pay more for quality.
At-home coffee prep remains strong, especially amid cost-of-living pressures and convenience trends, with many households investing in brewing gear and beans.
The Price Reality
Coffee prices in Australia have trended upwards. The industry report highlights the ongoing value gap — a small flat white in cities can fetch close to $7 — and this reflects broader cost pressures (from wages to supply-chain dynamics).
Still, Aussie coffee lovers continue to support local cafes because they value quality, sustainability, and the experience that comes with a well-crafted brew.
The Culture Behind the Consumption
More than anywhere else, Australians see coffee as social glue and ritual. From long blacks to flat whites, from cosy corners to busy laneway cafés, coffee conversations are part of daily life — whether in bustling city centres or quiet suburbs.
Key Takeaways for 2026
Australians still love coffee: majority consume coffee daily or regularly.
Market continues steady growth with evolving preferences toward convenience and premium experiences.
Café spending patterns show higher per-cup value but slightly fewer visits overall.
Quality and experience remain strong drivers for coffee choices — not just price.
