The Future of Hospitality Jobs in Australia – Key Trends for 2024 and Beyond

The hospitality industry is experiencing significant growth and transformation worldwide. With the global market expected to grow from $4.7 trillion to $5.8 trillion by 2027, demand for food, beverage, accommodation, and leisure services is steadily increasing. However, this positive trajectory is tempered by challenges, particularly in Australia, where labour shortages, evolving consumer expectations, and the need for innovation define the landscape.

Labour Shortages: Understanding the Workforce Gap

Australia’s restaurant and service sectors face significant labour shortages, driven by:

• Wage disparity and lack of job stability compared to other industries.
• Shifting worker priorities – mental well-being and work-life balance.
• COVID-19 layoffs creating long-term job security concerns.
• Retirement of experienced workers, leaving skill gaps for younger staff.
• Adoption of technology, leaving some employees feeling unprepared.

Despite these challenges, hospitality in Australia continues to value essential soft skills such as customer service, multitasking, and adaptability. Employers seek candidates with emotional intelligence, creativity, and digital literacy to thrive in the modern hospitality sector.

A Bright Future for Wellness Tourism

The wellness tourism sector is expanding rapidly. Valued globally at $814.6 billion in 2022, it’s projected to grow at 12.42% annually, potentially reaching $1.02 trillion by 2030. Yoga retreats, meditation, spa resorts, and holistic treatments are driving this growth.

For Australia, with its diverse landscapes and cultural richness, wellness tourism presents major opportunities to attract both international and domestic travellers.

Hospitality Industry Trends in 2024

• AI & Automation: Contactless check-ins, app-based booking, and voice-controlled rooms (e.g. citizenM hotels).
• Better Work Conditions: Hotels are offering higher wages, subsidised accommodation, and training to address staff shortages.
• Contactless Services: Mobile check-in, WhatsApp concierge, and automated room controls streamline operations while protecting guest data.
• Experiential Dining: Instagrammable bars, themed environments, mocktails, and locally inspired drinks create unique guest experiences.
• Sustainability: ESG certifications like Green Key encourage eco-friendly practices that appeal to guests and investors alike.

The Role of Consumer Trends and Compliance

With rising costs and growing demand for healthier options, Australian hospitality is adapting:

• Plant-based and low-sugar menu options.
• Alcohol-free alternatives like 0% beer and “no-secco”.
• Greater focus on sustainability and responsible sourcing.

Innovation and Growth in Australia’s Hospitality Industry

The Australian hospitality industry in 2024 is poised for growth, relying on:

• Addressing labour shortages with better conditions and training.
• Embracing technology to improve operations and guest experience.
• Capitalising on wellness tourism and sustainability trends.

For those entering the field, strong soft skills, digital fluency, and customer focus will be key to success.

About Evolution Hospitality Institute

Since 2006, Evolution Hospitality Institute has set the standard for commercial cookery, patisserie, and hospitality management education in Australia. With industry-standard facilities, flexible online options, and over 500 graduates each year, Evolution prepares students for real-world success.

Recognised as NSW Small Training Provider of the Year and led by founder Stuart A. Page, Evolution continues to produce skilled professionals who shape Australia’s hospitality future.

👉 Explore Hospitality Courses at Evolution

Meet Zul, an ambitious student from Mongolia, who embarked on her English language journey at Evolution Hospitality Institute. Through Evolution’s English Language Centre, Zul has not only strengthened his English but has also embraced a diverse community of classmates from countries like Colombia, Taiwan, China and Thailand. This cultural blend makes learning exciting, with everyone sharing their unique perspectives and supporting one another in their studies.

Studying English here is essential for Zul as she prepares to achieve his childhood dream of becoming a chef. Thanks to Evolution’s interactive and immersive program, she now has the skills to understand complex instructions in English, and she’s equipped to succeed in his upcoming Vocational Education and Training (VET) course in culinary arts. Zul’s journey is a testament to how Evolution’s tailored English courses can support students’ dreams. As she enthusiastically shares, “I highly recommend Evolution to all my friends and family!”

Why choose Evolution English Language Centre?

Evolution English Language Centre offers exceptional English training programs, from beginner to advanced levels, with a special emphasis on hospitality and tourism. Here, students not only learn English but also build the practical skills essential for the hospitality industry, making it an ideal choice for students aiming to enrol in Sydney’s Cookery School, Patisserie Course, Hospitality Management or Travel & Tourism. With classmates from around the world, students get real-world communication practice, preparing them for dynamic work environments in kitchen management, hospitality management, and more.

From day one, Evolution customises each student’s learning plan to ensure they reach their academic goals. For students planning to enter Evolution’s VET courses, English studies go hand-in-hand with practical skills, empowering them to start their careers in Australia with confidence. Hospitality Management Courses are also offered to prepare students for management roles, with options for Online Digital Kitchen Management and Hospitality Management courses that cater to flexible learning needs.

2025 Cap on VET College Enrolments: What This Means for New Students

According to Study Australia; Australia has recently introduced a cap, known as the National Planning Level (NPL), to limit international student growth each year. From January 1, 2025, there will be a national intake of 270,000 new international students. The distribution includes around 95,000 places allocated to VET providers like Evolution.

Current international students are unaffected by this cap. It only applies to new students starting courses in 2025, with exemptions for specific student cohorts, such as those in transnational education programs, higher degree research, and standalone English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS).

Enhanced Application Screening at Evolution

“Following a review of the Evidence Level outcomes for the period 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024, on 25 September the Minister for Home Affairs, The Hon Tony Burke MP, decided to pause the country and education provider Evidence Level changes that were scheduled to occur at the end of September 2024.” – Koala News.

In light of the Australian Government’s recent review of Evidence Levels for education providers, Evolution Hospitality Institute and Evolution English Language Centre will ensure that all students meet the updated government requirements, enabling a smoother path toward achieving their qualifications and career aspirations in Australia.

Whether your goal is mastering English for a professional career or advancing within Australia’s vibrant hospitality industry, Evolution English Language Centre provides the foundation you need to thrive. We’re excited to welcome students from around the globe and be part of your journey to success in Culinary Arts Institute, Hospitality Management, Patisserie and beyond.