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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For those aspiring to enter the culinary world, exploring Chef courses in Wollongong is an excellent start. This region offers a range of vocational education and training (VET) courses tailored for both beginners and experienced learners. The most popular beginner course is the Certificate III in Commercial Cookery SIT30821, designed for individuals with no prior experience. Additionally, for those focusing on food safety, the Food Safety Supervision Skill Set and its counterpart for community services and health industries, HLTSS00061, are also available, ensuring that students are well-equipped for successful careers in hospitality.
For individuals with prior experience or qualifications, the region offers advanced culinary training such as the Certificate IV In Asian Cookery SIT40821. This course caters to those looking to refine their skills and expand their culinary repertoire, with the goal of preparing them for more senior roles within the industry. Training providers like SCBM and AA deliver these courses locally, ensuring a high-quality education close to home.
Upon completion of Chef courses in Wollongong, graduates can explore various career paths within the culinary landscape. Job roles such as Catering Assistant, Apprentice Chef, and Kitchen Attendant are excellent starting points. As they progress, opportunities to work as a Sous Chef or even an Executive Chef could be within reach, depending on their passion and dedication.
Furthermore, expanding culinary skills through Tourism, Travel and Hospitality courses or specific Cookery and Catering studies can provide additional qualifications and enhance employability. The Opportunities in Wollongong’s vibrant food scene are plentiful, making it an ideal location to pursue a culinary career. Aspiring chefs should consider the various Cook and Pastry Chef roles, along with positions such as Food Safety Supervisor to thrive in this competitive industry.