The Cafe and Restaurant industry in Australia is experiencing remarkable growth, creating a high demand for qualified and skilled professionals. For Cafe and Restaurant Managers considering migration to Australia, obtaining a skills assessment can be a crucial step in the process. To help you navigate this assessment and maximise your chances of success, we have compiled essential tips and guidance to consider before submitting your application. Additionally, the Australian government has made changes to prioritise skilled visa applications, which positively impacts the timeframes experienced by visa applicants. These changes create more opportunities for workers to come to Australia, helping to address labour shortages within the Australian economy.
Here are the tips and information:
Work for an eligible business:
Understanding the specific experience required for the role is essential. Familiarise yourself with the tasks and duties outlined in the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) for Cafe and Restaurant Managers. This includes menu planning, special function organization, purchasing and pricing, record-keeping, compliance with health regulations, customer satisfaction assessment, staff management, and more.
Differentiate from fast food managers:
Highlight the key differences between Cafe and Restaurant Managers and fast-food managers. Cafe and Restaurant Managers work in establishments where food is prepared on-site by a chef. Emphasize your ability to collaborate with qualified chefs, manage budgets, and order food accordingly. Businesses where food arrives prepared or semi-prepared do not qualify under this classification. Fast Food Managers can consider applying as Retail Managers, though this may have less visa options available.
Understand the distinction between supervisor and manager:
To be considered a Cafe or Restaurant Manager, you must showcase your ability to oversee all aspects of the establishment’s performance. This includes managing employees, operations, sales targets, participating in business planning, and contributing to occupational development. While supervisors may assist owners or managers with specific tasks, they do not possess the required skill level and decision-making abilities for this assessment.
Provide clear and verifiable evidence:
When submitting evidence of your employment, ensure it can be easily verified. Restaurant businesses are often owned by companies with different trading names. Clearly explain the relationship between the employing company and the restaurant, providing its trading name, address, and contact details. Additionally, consider including menus and photographs of the premises to offer a comprehensive view of your venue.
Self-employed owners’ assessment evidence:
If you have owned and managed your own cafe or restaurant, you can still apply for a skills assessment. However, the evidence you provide will differ. Include documents such as business registration details, official statements from your accountant or legal team, payment evidence, and supplementary materials like client contracts and testimonials.
By incorporating these tips and understanding the current skilled visa processing priorities, you can enhance your chances of a successful skills assessment and increase your opportunities to migrate to Australia as a Cafe and Restaurant Manager.