How Much Does a Chef Earn in Australia

In Australia, the average salary for a chef ranges from $60,000 to $110,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level chefs start at around $50,000, while head chefs and executive chefs can earn over $100,000. Special roles like FIFO chefs and corporate chefs often pay even more.

What Is the Average Salary of a Chef in Australia?

The salary of a chef in Australia varies based on experience, location, and industry. Below is a general breakdown of chef salaries across the country:

Average Salaries for Chefs in Australia

(Source: Talent.com, Seek Career Advice, Fair Work Australia)

Comparison with Other Hospitality Roles

If you’re considering other jobs in the hospitality industry, here’s how chef salaries compare:

These roles can also be very different in: 

• Work Environment: The work atmosphere could be quite different; chefs always work in a busy kitchen, whereas the manager might have more office time. 
• Career Path: Many chefs start as cooks on the line and, with experience and skill-building opportunities, can move up to sous chef or head chef. 
• Skills Needed: Restaurant managers and executive chefs need leadership, business, and operational skills in addition to cooking skills.

How Much Does a Chef Make Based on Experience?

Entry-Level Chefs (0-2 Years Experience)

💰Salary: $50,000 – $60,000 per year

Recently qualified chefs (usually starting as Commis Chefs) are considered among the lowest-paid chefs. The primary responsibility of such chefs is to provide supportive services to senior chefs while learning the operations related to kitchen activities.

Example: A junior chef working in a Sydney café will earn about $52,000 per year, while the chef in a luxurious hotel can make up to $60,000.

Mid-Career Chefs (3-7 Years Experience)

💰Salary: $65,000 – $80,000 per year

With greater experience, chefs are found in roles such as Sous Chef, organizing kitchen staff and preparation.

Example: A sous chef in a Melbourne fine dining restaurant can earn about $78,000 a year, but perhaps $68,000 in a casual dining outlet.

Head Chefs & Executive Chefs (8+ Years Experience)

💰Salary: $90,000 – $120,000 per year

Head chefs and executive chefs oversee the whole operation of the kitchen, from menu creation to team management. Their salaries go considerably higher, reaching high-class restaurants or luxury hotels, reflecting the average chef salary in Australia.

Example: An executive chef in a 5-star resort in Queensland may receive more than $110,000, while in Sydney, the head chef of a popular restaurant might get $95,000.

These roles can also be very different in: Work Environment: The work atmosphere could be quite different; chefs always work in a busy kitchen, whereas the manager might have more office time. Career Path: Many chefs start as cooks on the line and, with experience and skill-building opportunities, can move up to sous chef or head chef. Skills Needed: Restaurant managers and executive chefs need leadership, business, and operational skills in addition to cooking skills.

FIFO Chefs – The Highest-Paid Chefs in Australia

FIFO chefs are the best-paid chefs in Australia, earning as much as $100,500 per year or higher. This figure may come with added benefits including superannuation and other allowances of up to 10,000 dollars. 

• FIFO chefs often work on remote mining camps and have difficult rosters, like two weeks on and one week off.
• As such, the chefs have to plan menus, do inventory, and maintain food safety standards when serving large groups. Living conditions can be harsh, with the areas usually being very remote and offering limited amenities, impacting the decision to work as a chef in those locations.
• To succeed, FIFO chefs must be adaptable, organized, and perform well under pressure. The opportunity appeals to those wanting high wages with travel, with considerable time off.

Where Are Chefs Paid the Most in Australia?

According to data from Seek, these are the highest-paying cities for chefs in Australia:

Industries Offering the Highest Salaries for Chefs

Not all chefs work in traditional restaurants. Some industries pay significantly higher wages:

Corporate and private chefs, as well as those working in high-end hospitality, often earn the most.

How to Take Your Chef Career to the Next Level

Breaking into the culinary industry is just the beginning—if you want to increase your earning potential and land high-paying chef roles, you need the right skills, certifications, and career strategy.

Whether you're aiming to become a head chef, executive chef, or even a private chef earning six figures, having the right qualifications can fast-track your success. That’s where Educube comes in.

Why Choose Educube?

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FAQ

1. How can I increase my salary as a chef?

Answer: Gain certifications, specialize in high-end cuisine, or move into management positions like Head Chef and Executive Chef.

2. How many years does it take to be a Head Chef?

Answer: 8-10 years of experience, normally, one would need to scale up the rank to Head Chef in a decent restaurant.

3. Can I work in Australia as a chef without any experience?

Answer: A few entry-level positions may allow beginners, but most jobs require at least 1-2 years of experience or formal training.