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Waiter

ANZSCO 431511

A Waiter serves diners in a restaurant, takes orders, delivers food, clears tables, and must excel in customer service and multitasking.

  • This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
      • NSW
      • NT
  • 10,000 people employed in Australia
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).

How do I become a waiter

Get qualified to work as a waiter with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Related career opportunities

Browse occupations related to Waiter.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Waiter generally earns $1,280 per week ($66,560 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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There has been strong employment growth in this industry in recent years. There are currently 134,200 people working as a Waiter in Australia compared to 120,200 five years ago. Waiters may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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If you’re interested in a career as a Waiter, consider enrolling in a Certificate I in Hospitality. You’ll learn about customer service, food safety and hygiene, communication and teamwork. A Certificate II in Hospitality or a Certificate III in Hospitality (Food and Beverage) may also be suitable.

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Further reading

Career spotlight: Hospitality professionals

17th September 2019

What can you do with a Certificate III in Hospitality?

14th December 2020

Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers

10th November 2023

All waiter courses

Waiter careers

A Waiter attends to diners at a restaurant, café or bistro. You might show customers to their table and give them menus. Waiters may take orders and deliver food and drinks to tables. You might also attend to any other needs or questions diners have while at a restaurant. Waiters also clear tables and set them ready for new customers.

Waiters should have strong customer service skills and be able to communicate with a wide range of customers. It’s important that you can work quickly and cope with the demands of a busy restaurant. Waiters should have good problem solving skills and must be able to handle several tasks at one time. You may have to work irregular hours including nights and weekends.