In 2025, the average kitchen manager salary in Australia sits between $75,000 and $85,000 per year, offering plenty of opportunities for growth. It’s a career that combines stability, creativity, and leadership, all within one of the most vibrant industries in the country.
If you love working with food, leading teams, and keeping things running smoothly behind the scenes, becoming a Kitchen Manager might be the right career for you.
In this blog, we’ll explore what a Kitchen Manager does, the average salary of a Kitchen Manager in Australia, what affects pay, and how studying at VIITE can help you build a successful hospitality career.
What Does a Kitchen Manager Do?
A Kitchen Manager ensures the kitchen runs efficiently, safely, and profitably every day. They manage people, budgets, and quality, all at once.
Kitchen Manager Responsibilities:
- Supervising and scheduling kitchen staff
- Managing inventory and supplier orders
- Maintaining food quality and hygiene standards
- Controlling costs and staying on budget
- Training and motivating staff
Simply put, the Kitchen Manager keeps the “back of house” running like clockwork. They’re the bridge between chefs, staff, and management, ensuring customers get the best dining experience possible. The role suits people who enjoy both the creativity of cooking and the organisation of management.
How much does a Kitchen Manager make per hour?
The average base hourly rate of a Kitchen Manager in Australia ranges between $22 and $31, depending on location, experience, and venue type (Payscale, 2025). That equals roughly $1,480–$1,630 per week before tax. Some Kitchen Managers, especially in large or high-end venues, earn even more through bonuses or overtime.
Average Kitchen Manager Salary by Location:
| Location | Average Annual Salary |
| Sydney, NSW | $85,127 |
| Melbourne, VIC | $79,064 |
| Brisbane, QLD | $76,830 |
| Gold Coast, QLD | $83,477 |
| Townsville, QLD | $104,815 (highest reported) |
| Adelaide, SA | $80,000 |
| Perth, WA | $73,295 |
| Canberra, ACT | $81,500 |
The highest paying cities near major metropolitan hubs like Sydney and the Gold Coast offer higher salaries because of the cost of living and tourism demand. These salary estimates help students learn about salaries and gain a clearer understanding of opportunities across the country.
What Factors Influence a Kitchen Manager’s Salary?
Several factors influence how much a Kitchen Manager gets paid, and pay range can vary between employers and regions:
1. Experience and seniority
- Entry-level Kitchen Managers: $55,000–$65,000
- Experienced (5+ years): $80,000–$100,000+, especially in hotels or large venues
(Source: SEEK, Salary Expert & Jora, 2025)
2. Type of establishment
Fine dining restaurants, hotels, and catering businesses usually pay more. Cafés and casual restaurants may offer lower pay but faster career progression.
3. Location
Wages are generally higher in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, and in tourist areas like the Gold Coast.
4. Education and training
Formal qualifications in Hospitality Management or Commercial Cookery significantly improve job prospects. Graduates from VIITE often step into supervisory roles sooner.
5. Skills and performance
Kitchen Managers with strong leadership, budgeting, and compliance skills can command better salaries and bonuses.
How does a kitchen manager’s salary compare to other hospitality roles?
The salary for kitchen managers stacks up well compared to other jobs in the hospitality field. Here’s how it compares:
| Role | Average Annual Salary (AUD) |
| Kitchen Manager | $75,000–$85,000 |
| Sous Chef | $83,000 |
| Cook | $75,000 |
| Duty Manager | $78,000 |
| Venue Manager | $93,000 |
While General Managers and executive chefs may earn more, Kitchen Managers enjoy a strong balance between hands-on cooking and leadership. Those interested in similar professions as Kitchen Manager can expect earnings within a comparable pay range, depending on venue and location.
Is there a demand for Kitchen Managers in Australia?
Absolutely, and the demand is strong.
Australia’s hospitality industry continues to expand across restaurants, cafés, hotels, and catering services. Job boards like SEEK consistently list new Kitchen Manager roles nationwide.
The Australian Government’s Job Outlook predicts steady growth for hospitality management jobs in the coming years. For international students, this is promising news; kitchen management is listed on many skilled migration pathways, opening up both career and visa opportunities after graduation.
What career progression opportunities exist beyond Kitchen Manager?
A Kitchen Manager role can lead to exciting advancement opportunities, such as:
- Executive Chef – overseeing multiple kitchens
- Operations or Hospitality Manager – managing several venues
- Food and Beverage Director – leading hospitality departments
- Entrepreneur / Restaurant Owner – starting your own business
As you climb the ladder, your earning potential increases, with many senior managers earning over $100,000 per year.
What skills and qualifications help you earn more as a Kitchen Manager?
Success as a Kitchen Manager depends on both technical know-how and people skills.
Key skills:
- Leadership and communication
- Budgeting and cost control
- Staff scheduling and training
- Food safety and hygiene management
- Menu development and efficiency
Recommended qualifications:
- SIT40521 Certificate IV in Kitchen Management
- SIT50422 Diploma of Hospitality Management
- Certificates in Food Safety Supervision or Workplace Health & Safety
These credentials show employers that you’re capable, confident, and serious about leading kitchen operations effectively.
How can VIITE help you become a Kitchen Manager?
At the Victorian International Institute of Technical Education (VIITE), students gain the practical training and real-world experience needed to excel in Australia’s hospitality sector.
VIITE’s programs blend hands-on learning, industry placements, and leadership development to help you stand out in the workforce.
Courses include:
- Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (SIT30821) – builds essential culinary skills and practical experience for entry-level kitchen roles.
- Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (SIT40521) – focused on kitchen operations and supervision
- Diploma of Hospitality Management (SIT50422) – designed for advanced management and leadership roles
International students benefit from career support, post-study work options, and strong industry connections, making it easier to secure employment in Australia’s growing hospitality market.
Most frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Do Kitchen Managers earn more than Chefs in Australia?
Yes, especially when managing larger teams or multiple operations.
Can international students become Kitchen Managers after studying?
Absolutely. Many international graduates start in cookery roles and move into management with experience.
What is the starting salary for a Kitchen Manager in Australia?
Typically $55,000–$65,000, depending on experience and location.
How many hours does a Kitchen Manager work per week?
Usually 40–50 hours, sometimes more during peak seasons or events.
Is a career as a Kitchen Manager worth it?
Yes. It offers strong demand, great pay, and clear career growth in Australia’s booming hospitality industry.
