10 Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Australia: A 2025 Guide to Opportunities and How to Apply

Introduction: Why Kitchen Assistant Jobs Are in Demand Across Australia

In Australia, the hospitality and food services industry continues to rebound strongly in 2025. With the return of international tourism, a growing population, and increased demand for aged care and community dining, kitchen assistant jobs are becoming increasingly available. These roles are ideal for those looking to start a career in hospitality, gain local experience, or work flexible hours with or without formal qualifications.

This guide not only highlights 10 real-time job openings for kitchen assistants but also walks you through how to qualify, apply, and thrive in this essential role — whether you’re a local job seeker, student, or foreign applicant interested in kitchen work in Australia.

What Does a Kitchen Assistant Do?

Kitchen assistants are crucial team members in both commercial and residential kitchens. Their duties typically include:

• Food preparation (washing, peeling, chopping ingredients)
• Dishwashing and cleaning surfaces
• Stock handling and pantry organization
• Assisting chefs and cooks with basic tasks
• Maintaining hygiene and safety standards

Kitchen assistant jobs may exist in restaurants, aged care facilities, hotels, schools, hospitals, and catering services.

Minimum Requirements to Become a Kitchen Assistant in Australia

Most employers do not require formal qualifications, but they typically look for:

• Good physical health (standing for long hours)
• Basic understanding of kitchen safety and hygiene
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Time management skills and punctuality
• Right to work in Australia (citizenship, permanent residency, or visa)

Optional certifications:

• Food Handling Certificate
• RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) for some venues

Real-Time Job Listings: 10 Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Australia (April 2025)

1. Kitchen Assistant – Cove Catering Services (Park Ridge, QLD)
   • Type: Part-time
   • Pay: $29–$31/hour
   • Highlights: School-friendly hours, ideal for parents
2. Kitchen Hand – Bru’s House (Golden Bay, WA)
   • Type: Casual
   • Pay: $23–$35/hour
   • Highlights: Busy coastal café with varied kitchen tasks
3. Kitchen Assistant – Hawkesbury Living (Richmond, NSW)
   • Type: Casual
   • Pay: $34–$51/hour
   • Highlights: Aged care sector with strong pay and weekday shifts
4. Kitchen Hand – Wineism (Albion, QLD)
   • Type: Casual
   • Pay: $30–$36/hour
   • Highlights: Work with a wine-focused restaurant brand
5. Kitchen Assistant – Xenos Restaurant Bar Cafe (Crows Nest, NSW)
   • Type: Part-time
   • Pay: Not specified
   • Highlights: Established venue with training provided
6. Kitchen Hand – Sidekicker (Sydney, NSW)
   • Type: Casual
   • Pay: $31.23–$43.72/hour + super
   • Highlights: Flexible work through hospitality platform
7. Kitchen Assistant – Carinya Lodge Homes Inc (Korumburra, VIC)
   • Type: Part-time
   • Pay: $25.98–$26.79/hour
   • Highlights: Work in a supportive aged care setting
8. Kitchen Hand – ibis Styles Geraldton (Geraldton, WA)
   • Type: Casual
   • Pay: Not specified
   • Highlights: International hotel chain with growth potential
9. Kitchen Hand – Talulah (The Junction, NSW)
   • Type: Part-time
   • Pay: $30–$37/hour
   • Highlights: Fast-paced café known for breakfast and brunch
10. Kitchen Assistant – Keyton (Pakenham, VIC)
    • Type: Part-time
    • Pay: Competitive + perks
    • Highlights: Premium retirement village with great kitchen facilities

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Kitchen Assistant Jobs in Australia

Step 1: Prepare a Job-Ready Resume

• Emphasize teamwork, cleanliness, reliability, and punctuality
• List any previous roles in food service, hospitality, or retail
• Include certificates or licenses (Food Handling, RSA)

Step 2: Search on Job Platforms and Company Websites Popular platforms include:

• Seek.com.au
• Indeed Australia
• Jora
• Gumtree Jobs
• Hospitality recruitment agencies like Sidekicker and Pinnacle People

Step 3: Apply Strategically

• Tailor your cover letter for each job
• Follow application instructions carefully
• Apply early in the week (Mondays or Tuesdays preferred)

Step 4: Prepare for the Interview

• Dress neatly and arrive early
• Emphasize your work ethic and ability to follow kitchen rules
• Be ready for a short kitchen trial or on-the-spot test

Step 5: Complete Onboarding and Start Work

• Provide ID, tax file number (TFN), and superannuation details
• Review kitchen safety protocols and staff manuals
• Begin with a support role and prove your reliability

Work Rights and Visas: Who Can Apply?

Australian Citizens and Permanent Residents

Eligible to work freely across all sectors, including hospitality.

International Students

Allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and full-time during holidays.

Working Holiday Makers and WHM Visa Holders (Subclass 417/462)

Eligible to work full-time in hospitality roles for up to 6 months per employer.

Employer-Sponsored Visas (Subclass 482/TSS)

Some kitchen assistant roles in remote or high-demand areas may qualify for sponsorship, especially in aged care or hotel kitchens.

Expected Pay Rates for Kitchen Assistants in Australia

Benefits and Conditions

• Paid hourly with casual or permanent part-time contracts
• Penalty rates for weekends, public holidays, and night shifts
• Access to meal discounts or free staff meals
• Career pathways to cook, chef, or supervisor

Tips for Success in the Kitchen

• Show up early, clean, and ready to work
• Keep work areas tidy and follow hygiene rules
• Take initiative but follow instructions carefully
• Learn from senior chefs and observe kitchen flow

Challenges in Kitchen Roles

• Physical demands (long hours on your feet)
• High-pressure environments
• Repetitive tasks during peak times
• Cleaning duties at end of shift

Career Growth from Kitchen Assistant Roles

Many kitchen assistants move into higher roles such as:

• Cook or Apprentice Chef (with training)
• Kitchen Supervisor
• Catering Assistant
• Food Services Manager

Recommended Training and Certifications

• Certificate II in Kitchen Operations
• Food Safety Supervisor (NSW, VIC, QLD)
• Responsible Service of Alcohol (if handling drinks)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Do I need experience to get a kitchen assistant job?
Not always. Many entry-level roles offer on-the-job training. A good attitude and willingness to work matter most.

Q2: Can I work full-time on a student visa?
Only during holidays. During semesters, you are limited to 48 hours per fortnight.

Q3: Is it possible to get sponsored for a visa through kitchen work?
Yes, particularly in aged care kitchens or rural/remote hospitality businesses.

Q4: What’s the difference between a kitchen hand and a kitchen assistant?
They are often used interchangeably, but some venues may assign more responsibilities to kitchen assistants.

Q5: Do I need to speak English fluently?
Basic English is required, especially to follow safety rules and communicate with team members.

Conclusion: Get Your Start in Australian Hospitality

Kitchen assistant jobs in Australia are abundant in 2025 — and they offer a practical way to earn income, gain experience, and step into a long-term hospitality career. With flexible hours, minimal entry barriers, and real chances to grow, they’re ideal for locals and newcomers alike.

Whether you’re looking to supplement your income as a student, fund your travels as a working holiday maker, or begin a new life in Australia, these kitchen roles can open the door to lasting employment in one of the country’s busiest and most rewarding sectors.