Migrate to Australia as a Chef

Overview

Chefs are in demand across Australia, from fine dining restaurants to hotels, resorts, and aged care facilities. The hospitality sector struggles to fill positions, making this a reliable migration pathway.

Skills Assessment

Your assessing authority is TRA (Trades Recognition Australia). You need a formal cookery qualification (Certificate III or higher) and at least 3 years of post-qualification work experience as a chef (not a cook).

The distinction between "chef" and "cook" matters. Chefs plan menus, manage kitchens, and supervise other kitchen staff. Cooks prepare food from established recipes. Your employment references need to clearly describe chef-level duties.

Eligible Visas

Chef (351311) is on the MLTSSL. Available pathways include 189, 190, 491, 482, and 186.

Job Market

Demand is strong in tourist areas (Gold Coast, Cairns, Sydney) and in regional areas where hospitality businesses cannot find local staff. Salary range: AUD 55,000 to 80,000. Head chef and executive chef roles pay more.

Tips

• Make sure your references clearly describe chef duties, not cook duties. This is the most common reason for assessment failures.
• Regional areas offer faster visa pathways (491) and often come with accommodation as part of the employment package.
• If you have experience in specialised cuisines, highlight this. Australian dining is diverse and values international expertise.