Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Australia are in high demand as the country’s hospitality and food service industry continues to grow rapidly. With competitive wages averaging $19 per hour, flexible working hours, and opportunities available across restaurants, hotels, hospitals, cafés, and catering companies, Kitchen Assistant roles are ideal for both local and international job seekers looking for stable employment in Australia.
This guide provides complete details about Kitchen Assistant jobs in Australia, including salary, job responsibilities, eligibility requirements, visa options, benefits, and how to apply successfully. Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Australia
Overview of Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Australia
Kitchen Assistants play a vital role in supporting chefs and kitchen staff by maintaining cleanliness, preparing ingredients, and ensuring smooth kitchen operations. These positions are entry-level friendly and do not always require formal qualifications, making them accessible to workers with limited experience.
Australia’s hospitality sector employs thousands of kitchen assistants every year due to labor shortages, especially in major cities and tourist regions.
Key Job Details:
- Job Title: Kitchen Assistant
- Country: Australia
- Salary: $18–$22 per hour (average $19/hour)
- Industry: Hospitality & Food Services
- Job Type: Full-time, Part-time, Casual
- Experience Required: Entry-level to experienced
Kitchen Assistant Salary in Australia
The average pay for Kitchen Assistant jobs in Australia is $19 per hour, with higher rates for night shifts, weekends, and public holidays. Many employers also offer penalty rates as per Australian workplace laws.
Salary Breakdown
- Hourly Wage: $18–$22
- Weekly Earnings: $720–$880 (full-time)
- Monthly Income: $3,000–$3,500
- Annual Salary: $38,000–$45,000
Additional benefits such as free meals, overtime pay, and paid leave further increase overall earnings.
Job Responsibilities of a Kitchen Assistant
Kitchen Assistants provide essential cooking and operational support in commercial kitchens. Typical duties include:
- Assisting chefs with basic food preparation
- Washing, peeling, and cutting vegetables
- Cleaning kitchen equipment and workstations
- Washing dishes, utensils, and cookware
- Maintaining food hygiene and safety standards
- Stocking ingredients and kitchen supplies
- Disposing of waste properly
- Supporting smooth kitchen workflow during busy hours
These tasks ensure that kitchens operate efficiently and meet Australian food safety regulations.
Eligibility Criteria for Kitchen Assistant Jobs
One of the main advantages of Kitchen Assistant jobs in Australia is the low entry barrier.
Basic Requirements
- Minimum age: 18 years
- Basic English communication skills
- Physical fitness for standing and lifting
- Willingness to work shifts, weekends, and holidays
Preferred Skills
- Previous kitchen or hospitality experience
- Knowledge of food safety and hygiene
- Teamwork and time-management skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Formal qualifications are usually not mandatory, making this role suitable for beginners. Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Australia
Work Environment and Conditions
Kitchen Assistants work in various settings, including:
- Restaurants and cafés
- Hotels and resorts
- Hospitals and aged care facilities
- School and corporate cafeterias
- Catering companies
The job may involve long hours of standing, exposure to heat, and busy peak times, but it also offers valuable experience in the hospitality industry.
Visa Options for Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Australia
Australia allows foreign workers to apply for Kitchen Assistant roles through several visa pathways, depending on eligibility.
Common Visa Options
- Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482)
- Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 & 462)
- Student Visa (Part-time work allowed)
- Employer Sponsored Visas (in selected cases)
Working Holiday and Student Visa holders frequently find Kitchen Assistant jobs due to flexible work conditions.
Benefits of Working as a Kitchen Assistant in Australia
Kitchen Assistant jobs offer more than just a paycheck.
Key Benefits
- Competitive hourly wages
- Overtime and penalty rates
- Free or discounted meals
- Paid annual and sick leave (for full-time workers)
- Flexible shifts for students and part-time workers
- Opportunities for career growth into chef roles
- Multicultural and inclusive work environment
Many workers use Kitchen Assistant roles as a stepping stone into long-term hospitality careers.
Career Growth Opportunities
Starting as a Kitchen Assistant can open doors to higher-paying roles such as:
- Cook
- Commis Chef
- Chef de Partie
- Kitchen Supervisor
With experience and training, workers can significantly increase their earning potential in Australia’s hospitality industry.
How to Apply for Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Australia
Applying for Kitchen Assistant jobs is straightforward if you follow the right steps.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Prepare a simple resume highlighting hospitality experience
- Search for jobs on Australian job portals
- Apply online or visit local restaurants and hotels
- Attend interviews and trial shifts
- Secure employment and complete visa formalities if required
Popular Job Portals
- SEEK Australia
- Indeed Australia
- Jora
- Gumtree Jobs
- Hospitality-specific recruitment agencies
Tips to Get Hired Faster
- Apply during peak seasons (summer and holidays)
- Be flexible with shifts and locations
- Obtain a Food Safety Certificate
- Dress professionally for interviews
- Show willingness to learn and work hard
Conclusion
Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Australia – $19/hour – Cooking Support offer excellent opportunities for individuals seeking stable income, flexible work options, and entry into the hospitality industry. With competitive pay, strong labor demand, and accessible eligibility requirements, these roles are ideal for local workers, students, and international job seekers alike.
If you are looking for a reliable job with growth potential in Australia, Kitchen Assistant positions are a smart and rewarding choice.