Southbank is good area. A busy part on the city day & night. The Crown Casino complex is at the west end. Parking can be difficult. In that area I usually park in in the casino car park (but do not go to the casino)
http://www.thatsmelbourne.com.au/Pla...Southbank.aspx
https://www.southgatemelbourne.com.au/

As above tipping in Australia is not common or expected. Just round up the $1 or $5 ($5 is the smallest note) for taxis or good restaurant. But is not expected. In Melbourne I often had taxi driver's round down say $65.25 to $65.00. Or a $64.75 fare they will give back $0.25.