Starbucks Tarneit — Restaurant in Melbourne

I took my 3-year-old daughter to Starbucks today. While we were there, she accidentally knocked over a cup that was placed at about her height. After quite a while, an Asian female staff member came over. I sincerely apologized and explained that it was an accident caused by a small child. To my shock, she showed no concern whatsoever about whether my daughter was hurt—instead, she coldly told me that I had to pay for the broken cup.

I asked if her manager was available, and a man came out. Again, he simply repeated that we had to pay. My husband agreed to pay but requested an invoice to show that it was a compensation payment, not a purchase—so he could pay by card. The staff refused, saying they could only provide a regular receipt. I asked how they could prove that we were paying for a broken item and not just buying a new cup. His response? He offered to pack the broken cup into a box and give it to us.

I was honestly stunned by the lack of empathy and the way this situation was handled. Accidents happen, especially with small children, but the complete absence of basic human decency and understanding was beyond disappointing.

According to Consumer affair law, if a 3-year-old accidentally breaks a display cup in Starbucks, Store responsibility comes first: Under Australian Consumer Law, stores are responsible for maintaining a safe environment. If fragile items are placed where children can easily reach them, the store may be considered partly or fully responsible. The parent’s attitude matters: If the parent sincerely apologizes and offers to pay, most staff will respond kindly and say it’s not necessary. Common outcome: Major chains like Starbucks usually have clear policies for minor accidents like this, and they typically don’t require compensation, especially when it involves young children and was clearly accidental. Compensation depends on the situation: If the item is particularly expensive or limited edition, the store might politely request payment, but that’s rare and would usually be discussed respectfully.

We have risen a formal complaint to Starbucks...

Been here several times now and it's been bad every time. For starters, the staff should be re-trained on the offerings - not everyone wants a Frappucino. Getting stumped looks ordering just the tea or a drip/brewed coffee (basic Starbucks offerings elsewhere). The girl who took my order was grumpy and rolled her eyes at me. The drip coffee was awful - so watery. Should've just ordered an Americano. The coffee was burnt on the espresso-based drinks, and the milk for the cappuccino was steamed to boiling hot. The coffee you make yourself at the 7-11 right across is much better (if only they had seats...). Like most Starbucks, this one has good seating and chill music. But look close enough and you will see the place is so dirty! The floor is dirty, the bins over flowing, tables are sticky, and the bathrooms are disgusting. Please invest in a contract cleaner to deep clean the place weekly (at least). Every time I've been to this Starbucks, it's been the same. Sorry, I hate posting bad reviews, but I doubt any of the staff would give 2 cents if I told these points to them directly. Most look like they don't want to be there (the general cleanliness is a dead giveaway). Seriously, Starbucks...

Worst Customer Service Ever!

I had the most disappointing experience at Starbucks Tarneit. The staff at this store are shockingly rude and have no idea how to interact with customers. There was one Indian guy taking my order, and his attitude was appalling. He was impolite and made me feel like I was inconveniencing him by simply placing an order.

I had purchased a Made For Each Other 24oz Cold Cup as a gift and politely asked if they had a box to put it in. Instead of responding professionally, he got visibly irritated and rudely refused. It’s such a small thing, and there are so many ways to say no without being disrespectful, but clearly, this staff member doesn’t understand basic manners.

I’ve visited many Starbucks locations and always encountered friendly and helpful staff, but this store is a disgrace to the brand. Whoever manages this place needs to address their staff’s attitude and train them in proper customer service. The experience left such a bad taste that I’ll think twice before visiting again. If this staff member is reading this, you know exactly who you are—learn how to talk to people!

Absolutely the worst Starbucks experience...