Lexi Webster
Australia's hospitality industry is booming, with a projected market value of over AUD $102 billion and a steady annual growth rate of 3.8%. The industry is constantly recruiting staff, especially during the summer season, when restaurants, cafes, and bars experience peak activity. The demand for hospitality workers is high throughout the year in bustling cities, coastal resorts, and remote Outback lodges. The minimum wage in Australia's hospitality industry is $24.10 per hour, with casual employees earning higher. While previous catering experience can be beneficial, many establishments are willing to train motivated candidates. The best way to get a hospitality job in Australia is to walk into businesses and hand out resumes, especially to managers. Online job portals like Seek, Indeed, and Jora are also popular platforms for job seekers. Facebook groups and word-of-mouth referrals through industry events and social media groups are other effective ways to find hospitality jobs in Australia.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Hospitality industry market value | AUD $102 billion |
| Annual growth | 3.8% |
| Number of jobs in Australia | 1 in every 20 jobs |
| Minimum wage | $24.10 per hour |
| Casual salary | 25% higher than the minimum salary |
| Maximum working hours | 38 hours per week |
| Trial period | Yes |
| Training | Bar training, RSA certificate |
| Job search platforms | Seek, Indeed, Jora, Gumtree |
| Job search method | Door-to-door, Facebook groups, word of mouth |
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What You'll Learn
Job requirements and certifications
Australia's hospitality industry is currently booming, offering a wide range of job opportunities. The sector is dynamic and thriving, with a projected market value of over AUD $102 billion and an annual growth rate of 3.8%. The industry employs over 850,000 people, and there is a constant need for staff in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, as well as tourist hotspots.
When it comes to job requirements and certifications in the Australian hospitality industry, here is what you need to know:
Certifications
To work in establishments serving alcohol, you must obtain the Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificate. This certification is state-specific, and costs vary from $50 to $140 depending on the state. The RSA qualification enhances your CV and demonstrates your skills in the catering industry.
If you are interested in working as a barista, there are two types of courses available: a non-accredited course and a nationally recognised one. The Barista Coffee Course is a basic, one-day training program that covers coffee-making skills and customer service.
Job Requirements
The Australian hospitality industry seeks candidates with a positive attitude, good communication skills, and a willingness to learn. While previous catering experience can be beneficial, many employers are willing to train motivated individuals. Flexibility and availability to work evenings and weekends are key requirements.
To increase your chances of finding a job, it is recommended to have your resume ready and to approach managers directly. Dress professionally and be prepared to discuss potential opportunities. Networking is also crucial; attend industry events, join hospitality groups on social media, and connect with fellow travellers and locals who may be aware of job openings.
Additionally, ensure your resume is adapted to Australian standards, as the layout may differ from other countries. Customise your application for each role, highlighting any experience in customer-related jobs and your ability to adapt and learn quickly.
Salary Information
The minimum wage in Australia's hospitality industry is $24.10 per hour, with casual employees earning 25% more. Wages in the hospitality sector often meet or exceed the minimum wage, and tips can significantly boost your income, especially in high-end establishments.
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Where to look for hospitality jobs
The Australian hospitality industry is booming, with a projected market value of over AUD $102 billion and steady annual growth of 3.8%. This makes it a prime destination for travellers and backpackers seeking employment in the hospitality sector. The demand for hospitality workers is high throughout the year, especially in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, as well as tourist hotspots like Cairns and the Gold Coast.
Online Job Portals
Websites like SEEK, Indeed, and Jora are popular platforms for job seekers in Australia. Use keywords like "hospitality," "barista," "waitstaff," and "chef" to find relevant job listings. SEEK, for example, offers a variety of hospitality and tourism job postings, including positions in catering, housekeeping, bar/retail, and industrial cleaning.
Local Listings and Walking Around
Local listings are often updated daily, so check the boards in your hostel or nearby locations. Walking around with copies of your resume is also a great way to find opportunities. Look out for "help wanted" or "staff wanted" signs, and don't be afraid to engage directly with managers. Many cafes, bars, and restaurants prefer hiring candidates who show initiative by applying in person.
Word of Mouth and Networking
Word of mouth is powerful in the Australian hospitality industry. Attend industry events, join hospitality groups on social media, and connect with fellow travellers and locals who might know of job openings. Agencies like Pinnacle People and Frontline Hospitality, which specialize in hospitality placements, can also provide access to a range of temporary, part-time, and full-time positions.
Direct Applications
Some establishments may not advertise job openings, so it can be worth reaching out directly to hotels, restaurants, bars, and cafes that you're interested in working for. Check their websites or social media pages for any career or recruitment sections, or simply give them a call to inquire about potential opportunities.
Seasonal Demand
Remember that the summer season (December to February) is when restaurants, cafes, and bars experience peak activity. During this time, you may find more "Staff Wanted" signs and increased recruitment drives, so it could be an opportune moment to intensify your job search.
Good luck with your job hunt!
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Salary expectations
Entry-level positions in hospitality are often listed as casual, part-time, or full-time roles, with casual being the most common. These roles typically pay the national minimum wage, though some may pay an award wage that is industry and job-specific. Some sources state that the minimum wage for casual roles is $20.33 per hour.
The average hospitality salary in Australia varies depending on the source. One source states that the average is $75,000 per year, with entry-level positions starting at $61,320 per year and experienced workers making up to $117,000 per year. Another source claims that the average is $95,000 per year, with entry-level positions starting at $77,846 per year and highly experienced professionals earning up to $144,500 per year. According to SalaryExplorer, the median salary is $60,000 per year, with 75% of people earning less than $112,000 per year.
It is important to note that salaries can vary significantly depending on the specific role and the level of experience required. For example, roles such as sous chef may require several years of experience in the industry or a relevant qualification, such as a Diploma of Hospitality Management. These roles tend to be better paid, with sources citing salaries of $48.72 per hour or $144,500 per year.
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Resume and cover letter tips
The Australian hospitality industry is booming, with a projected market value of over AUD $102 billion and steady annual growth of 3.8%. This makes it a great time to be looking for a hospitality job in the country.
Resume tips
- Adapt your resume to Australian standards. The layout is often different from other countries.
- Emphasise your flexibility and availability to work evenings and weekends.
- Highlight any experience in customer-related jobs, as well as your ability to adapt, motivation, and quick learning.
- If you have worked in a variety of roles and areas, consider having several resumes, each tailored to a different role, sector, or area.
- Include a summary statement and work experience section, and modify these according to the job you're applying for.
- If you have any red flags on your resume, such as a previous employer going bankrupt, take the time to explain them in your cover letter.
- Include any further education, like university and hospitality programs, and detail how this has added to your expertise in the hospitality industry.
- Highlight your attention to detail and how this has helped you perform your tasks and enhance customer satisfaction.
- Reassure managers of your flexible schedule. This will allow them to approach you for help in the future, such as working extra hours or covering shifts in other departments.
- If you are applying for a job in a regional area, make sure the job meets the criteria set by the Department of Home Affairs, so that it counts towards the specified work requirement for extending your Working Holiday Visa.
Cover letter tips
- Avoid being too generic. Inject some personality into your writing to show the hiring manager that you are personable and enthusiastic.
- Proofread your cover letter several times before sending it, and consider having someone else read it too.
- Balance being personal and passionate with being professional.
- Make sure the opening paragraph is strong and draws the reader in.
- Keep your cover letter concise and well-structured, and tailor it specifically to the role.
- Include your qualifications, experiences, and skills relevant to the job, but avoid overwhelming the hiring manager with too much information.
- If you have no experience in hospitality, start your cover letter by introducing yourself and expressing your enthusiasm for the industry.
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Interview processes and follow-ups
The interview process for hospitality jobs in Australia can vary, but there are some common steps and considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to adapt your resume to Australian standards, as the layout may differ from other countries. While previous catering experience can be beneficial, many establishments are willing to train motivated candidates with a positive attitude and good communication skills. So, make sure to highlight any relevant experience in customer-related jobs and emphasise your adaptability, motivation, and quick learning abilities.
When exploring job opportunities, the "door-to-door" method is often the most efficient. Dress professionally and carry copies of your resume as you walk into businesses and ask to speak with the manager about potential opportunities. This approach showcases your initiative and can leave a positive impression. During your conversation with the manager, inquire about their hiring needs, the available positions, and the expected work hours.
In some cases, you may be asked to complete a trial before being hired. After the trial, you will typically have a chat with the manager or supervisor, who will provide more details about the job, hours, pay, and start date. If you haven't heard back within a week, it is advisable to give them a follow-up call to express your continued interest.
It is worth noting that hospitality businesses in Australia may not always advertise on major job search platforms. Instead, they might put up signs in their windows or use Facebook pages or groups to advertise vacancies. Word-of-mouth recommendations are also powerful in the hospitality industry, so attend industry events, join relevant Facebook groups and social media networks, and connect with fellow travellers and locals who may have insights into job openings.
Lastly, while enthusiasm and aptitude are crucial, don't underestimate the value of formal education and certifications. Australia offers various courses and programs tailored to the hospitality industry, which can enhance your employability.
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Frequently asked questions
No, it isn't. Hospitality jobs are easy to find and are often fun and social. The hospitality industry in Australia is huge, employing over 850,000 people, and is expected to grow by 13.3% in the upcoming year.
The door-to-door method is the most efficient way to find a hospitality job in Australia. Walk into businesses with copies of your resume and ask for the manager. Ask whether they are hiring, what positions they want to fill, and how many hours you would work per week. You can also look for ''Looking for Staff' signs in windows, search on job portals such as Seek, Indeed, and Jora, or join Facebook groups dedicated to hospitality jobs in your city.
Hosts or hostesses welcome guests, manage reservations, and seat them. Baristas make coffee and work in cafes and coffee shops. Bartending and barista roles often require a Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificate, which allows you to serve alcohol and costs around $50 to $140.
Beyond technical know-how, employers seek soft skills such as flexibility, availability to work evenings and weekends, a positive attitude, willingness to learn, and good communication skills.
