QSRs take over Aussie dining with value menus and digital orders

Rising costs drive diners toward more affordable meals.

Fast‑casual and quick‑service restaurants (QSRs) are continuing to take share from cafes, bars, and full‑service restaurants in Australia, according to RaboResearch’s report.

Industry data show that 82% of Australians live within about 3km of a major QSR outlet.

The report points to two key drivers of growth in this segment: low-cost, value-focused menus and the widespread adoption of digital ordering and delivery services.

Rising living costs have led many consumers to shift away from higher-priced full-service restaurants toward more affordable options.

Fast-casual and QSR operators have benefited by offering cheaper menu items and prioritising convenience through online ordering and delivery.

Younger diners, in particular, have embraced these digital services, further strengthening the position of fast-casual and QSR chains in the market.

Two recent industry reports underscore this shift. Data from Mordor Intelligence show that the quick‑service segment accounted for 38.55% of Australia’s foodservice market in 2025, with digital ordering penetration and operational efficiencies cited as key growth drivers.

Another report from Circana finds that QSR spending and customer traffic grew to 5.5% and 1%, respectively, in 2025, even as full‑service restaurant traffic continued to lag, reflecting ongoing consumer preference for lower‑cost, convenience‑oriented dining.