This role has a moderate level of AI exposure. AI can enhance efficiency for some tasks, but this job still relies on human skills and decision-making.
Explore all careersA Chef plans menus, prepares meals, manages kitchen staff, and ensures quality, working in restaurants, cafés, or catering with diverse dietary needs.
Get qualified to work as a Chef with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
In Australia, a full time Chef generally earns $1,346 per week ($69,992 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
The number of people working in this industry has grown strongly over the last five years. There are currently 101,000 people employed as a Chef in Australia compared to 80,200 five years ago. Chefs may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
If you’re planning a career as a Chef, consider enrolling in a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery. You’ll learn basic cooking and food preparation methods and develop the skills to cook a range of meals, appetisers, salads and desserts. A Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery or a Diploma of Hospitality Management (Commercial Cookery) may also be appropriate.
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Are you looking to embark on a rewarding culinary journey? Explore the Chef courses in Canberra, where you can gain the necessary skills to thrive in the vibrant food scene of Australia's capital. Our offerings include beginner-friendly options such as the Certificate III in Commercial Cookery SIT30821 and the Food Safety Supervision Skill Set SITSS00069. These courses are designed for those with little to no prior experience. Additionally, students can take part in short courses tailored to specific niches, such as the Food Safety Supervision Skill Set for Community Services and Health Industries HLTSS00061.
For those with some culinary experience, there’s a fantastic opportunity to elevate your skills with the Certificate IV In Asian Cookery SIT40821. This advanced course can help you specialise and stand out in the field. In Canberra, leading training providers such as Capital College deliver these chef courses, ensuring quality education and hands-on experience in a supportive environment. No matter your starting point, there’s a suitable course waiting for you!
Completing a chef course opens doors to various culinary career paths. Students often find themselves interested in roles such as Apprentice Chef, Catering Assistant, or even Executive Chef. As you refine your skills, consider exploring careers in the Tourism, Travel and Hospitality courses or Cookery and Catering fields. The culinary world is filled with exciting opportunities, and with the right training, you can transform your passion for cooking into a fulfilling career.