This is fairly standard practice in Australia, everyone is asked to “bring a plate”. This is usually in the context of a casual or community orientated event. However, it would generally be considered poor form to make demands about what be on that plate and enough to feed fifty would be considered an outrage.

Also, hopping into “the plates” without having brought your own “plate” will not go without notice. So much so, one guy in our community is known primarily as “the guy who doesn’t bring a plate” and has effectively worn out his welcome.

The “bring a plate” vernacular can be a bit confusing to non-Australians. There is an expectation that there be some food on the plate, something many have learnt the hard way.

Expecting people to “bring a plate” to a private party such as a birthday would not generally be considered ok. I think I’m going to need to write an article about this!