When Amina left her job as a front desk agent in Kenya, she had no idea her career would take her across the globe to a luxury resort in Western Australia. It started with a simple online application and, before long, she was boarding a plane with a visa sponsored entirely by her new employer. Today, Amina earns over $80,000 AUD annually, enjoys a vibrant lifestyle, and is on a clear path to permanent residency. Her story reflects a growing reality for skilled hospitality workers worldwide.
Australia’s hospitality sector is booming in 2025. From major cities like Sydney and Melbourne to remote luxury lodges and coastal resorts, the need for trained hospitality professionals is rising sharply. To meet this demand, the government and private employers are actively offering international recruitment with full visa sponsorship. If you’re looking to migrate to Australia as a hospitality worker, now is the perfect time to explore this rewarding pathway.
Why Hospitality Workers Are in High Demand in Australia
Australia’s economy is rebounding with strength following years of global travel disruption. Domestic tourism has grown rapidly, and international tourism is back in full swing. Restaurants, hotels, event centers, and cruise lines are seeing record bookings. But there’s a problem: there simply aren’t enough trained hospitality professionals to meet the surge.
To solve this, the Australian government has added hospitality roles to the skilled occupation lists, making it possible for employers to sponsor foreign workers under various visa programs. Positions such as hotel managers, front office staff, restaurant supervisors, baristas, chefs, and catering professionals are now eligible for visa sponsorship under the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
This strategy ensures not only that employers can fill positions quickly, but also that skilled workers from overseas can contribute meaningfully to Australia’s economic growth while building prosperous careers.
Earning Potential for Hospitality Workers
One of the most attractive features of this opportunity is the earning potential. Salaries in the hospitality sector vary based on role, experience, and location, but they have risen considerably in recent years due to shortages and demand.
Here are typical salary ranges for sponsored hospitality roles in Australia:
- Guest Services or Front Desk Agent: $60,000 – $75,000 AUD
- Restaurant Supervisor or Duty Manager: $65,000 – $85,000 AUD
- Hotel Manager or Operations Manager: $85,000 – $95,000+ AUD
- Event and Banquet Coordinator: $70,000 – $90,000 AUD
Additionally, sponsored workers often receive:
- Paid relocation and airfare
- Assistance with accommodation during the initial months
- Access to tax-free superannuation savings
- Employer-covered visa processing fees
These benefits make it easier to settle quickly and start enjoying both professional and personal growth in Australia.
Types of Hospitality Roles Being Sponsored
While many associate hospitality with hotels and restaurants, the industry in Australia spans a variety of environments. From vineyard retreats to island resorts and eco-lodges, the diversity of available opportunities is impressive.
In-demand roles include:
- Hotel front office staff
- Housekeeping supervisors
- Food and beverage managers
- Fine dining waitstaff and sommeliers
- Event planning and catering coordinators
- Resort recreation staff and guest experience managers
Candidates with a strong grasp of English, previous hospitality experience, and formal training or certifications (like diplomas in hotel or restaurant management) are highly competitive.
Visa Options for Sponsored Hospitality Workers
There are several visa pathways available for those seeking to migrate to Australia as a hospitality worker with full sponsorship.
Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage Visa
This visa allows Australian employers to hire foreign workers for up to four years. You must be sponsored by an approved business, and your occupation must be on the relevant skilled list. It also provides a path to permanent residency after several years of work.
Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme Visa
This option grants direct permanent residency to skilled workers who are nominated by their employer and meet the eligibility criteria. It is one of the most attractive options for long-term migration.
Subclass 407 – Training Visa
While not a direct employment visa, this pathway is ideal for candidates looking to enter Australia for workplace-based training. It can lead to sponsorship under other visas if the candidate performs well.
Each visa type requires a different level of documentation and eligibility, but all require English proficiency, health clearance, and relevant skills assessment.
Steps to Secure a Hospitality Job with Sponsorship
The first step is to build a professional CV tailored to Australian standards. Focus on your customer service skills, leadership qualities, and any international experience. Highlight certifications like ServSafe, HACCP training, or hospitality diplomas.
Start applying on platforms such as Seek.com.au, Jora, LinkedIn, or specialized hospitality recruitment agencies. Look specifically for job postings that mention “visa sponsorship available.” You can also connect directly with employers through hotel group career pages (e.g., Accor, Marriott, IHG).
Once shortlisted, employers will conduct virtual interviews. If successful, they will begin the sponsorship process. You will be guided through gathering required documents, medical exams, and lodging your visa application.
Be ready to relocate within 2–4 months from your job offer, depending on how quickly your visa is processed.
Living in Australia as a Skilled Hospitality Professional
Working in Australia’s hospitality industry offers a unique lifestyle blend of professional achievement and personal well-being. Cities like Brisbane and Perth offer affordable living with proximity to stunning beaches, while Sydney and Melbourne provide fast-paced environments rich with culture and cuisine.
Outside of work, hospitality professionals in Australia enjoy public healthcare (Medicare), superannuation savings for retirement, and access to a multicultural, inclusive society. Many workers go on to secure permanent residency, enabling them to bring family members and invest in long-term goals such as property ownership or advanced education.
There’s also a clear professional growth trajectory. Sponsored workers can gain promotions, switch employers after a required period, or even open their own businesses in the sector after gaining permanent status.
Why You Should Take the Leap Now
Hospitality is not just about serving—it’s about creating experiences. And Australia is inviting passionate people to bring those experiences to life. The industry is not only short on labor but rich with opportunity.
If you’ve built a career in hospitality and are looking for international exposure, higher earnings, and a life filled with balance and security, now is the best time to act. With employers ready to invest in your success and the government offering full support through visa sponsorship, the pathway has never been clearer.
Migrate to Australia as a hospitality worker in 2025 and start earning up to $95,000 AUD while enjoying a vibrant new chapter in one of the world’s most liveable countries.