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Ten Things You Maybe Didn't Know About the AU Tablespoon

1. It’s bigger than most other tablespoons

The Australian tablespoon is a hefty 20 millilitres. Compare that to the U.S. tablespoon (14.79 mL) or the U.K. version (15 mL), and you’re looking at a tablespoon that doesn't mess around.

2. Unique to Australia (and a few recipes down under)

This isn't just a metric spoon—it's an Aussie invention. The 20 mL tablespoon is officially recognized in Australian recipes, cookbooks, and kitchen sets.

3. It can make or break your baking

Using a non-AU tablespoon in an Aussie recipe? That cake might be sadder than a soggy pavlova. Precision matters, especially with baking powder, spices, and oils.

4. It’s part of the metric system… sort of

Even though it doesn’t line up with the standard 15 mL metric tablespoon, the AU tablespoon is legally defined in Australian measurements and used in nutrition labels and food laws.

5. 1 AU tablespoon = 4 teaspoons

Unlike other regions where it's 3 teaspoons per tablespoon, the Aussie version gets an extra teaspoon in there. Makes teaspoon-to-tablespoon math super satisfying.

6. It’s got official government backing

The National Measurement Institute of Australia (yep, that’s a real thing) recognizes and enforces the use of the 20 mL tablespoon in food-related measurements.

7. It’s built into Aussie kitchen gear

If you buy measuring spoons in Australia, that tablespoon is going to be 20 mL. No guessing or conversions—just grab, scoop, and stir.

8. It can trip up international cooks

Follow an Aussie recipe with U.S. spoons and you’ll under-measure every tablespoon by about 25%. That can be a big deal if you’re using bold ingredients like chili or vinegar.

9. You’ll find it in medication, too

Some Australian liquid medications refer to a 20 mL dose as “1 tablespoon,” especially in older or non-standard packaging—double-check with a pharmacist to be safe!

10. It’s proudly different—because why not?

Australians do things a bit differently, and their tablespoon is no exception. It’s a practical twist on a global concept, and it works just fine when you know how to use it.