1Industry Overview
Australia's accommodation and food services industry employs over 920,000 workers and contributes approximately $50 billion to GDP. Tourism, one of the country's top export earners, drives significant demand for hospitality workers across hotels, restaurants, cafes, catering, and events. Major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are hospitality hubs, but regional tourism hotspots also generate substantial employment.
2Post-Pandemic Workforce Recovery
The sector was hit hardest by COVID-19, losing approximately 310,000 jobs at the pandemic's peak. Despite strong recovery, many workers have left the industry permanently. The Restaurant & Catering Association reports that 85% of hospitality businesses struggle to find staff. Chefs, cooks, waitstaff, baristas, and hotel housekeeping roles remain critically short across all states.
3Wages & Working Conditions
The Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2020 sets minimum pay rates, with casual employees earning from $28.26/hour (Level 1) plus 25% casual loading. Qualified chefs can earn $55,000–$85,000+ annually. The sector offers flexibility that appeals to students, working holidaymakers, and part-time workers. Weekend and public holiday penalty rates provide additional earning opportunities.
4Future Outlook
With international tourism rebounding and major events like the 2032 Brisbane Olympics on the horizon, hospitality workforce demand will continue to grow. The Australian Government has introduced the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme and expanded working holiday visa programs to help address staffing gaps in the sector.