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Waiter (NSW/ACT)

State/Territory Specific Information

Education and Training:

You can work as a waiter without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job.

You can also become a waiter through a traineeship in Hospitality. Entry requirements may vary but employers usually require Year 10. Ask your career adviser about the possibility of starting some of this training in school.

Additional Information:

To serve alcohol, waiters must be a minimum of 18 years of age and hold a Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificate. RSA short courses are widely offered by TAFE NSW and Registered Training Organisations. Contact the NSW Office of Liquor, Racing and Gaming for further information.

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Tourism, Hospitality and Events Training Package that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.

Related Courses:

While the following courses are related to this occupation, they may not necessarily lead directly to employment, nor provide the most direct pathway to the occupation. Courses which provide preliminary or informal training, as well as those which provide additional job skills following initial qualifications may also be listed.

*Course is offered by more than one institution. Click link for details.

  1. Cafe Service (Training Program)
  2. Canteens - NSW Healthy School Canteen Strategy
  3. Club Operations (Training Program)
  4. Follow Workplace Hygiene Procedures (SIT Unit) *
  5. Food and Beverage Busboy or Buffet Attendant (Training Program)
  6. Food and Beverage/Drinks Attendant (Training Program)
  7. Food Safety Supervisor (Training Program)
  8. Implement Food Safety Procedures (SIT Unit) *
  9. Prepare and Serve Cocktails (SIT Unit) *
  10. Prepare and Serve Non Alcoholic Beverages (SIT Unit)
  11. Provide Food and Beverage Service (SIT Unit)
  12. Provide Food Services (CHC Unit)
  13. Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol (SIT Unit) *
  14. Provide Table Service of Alcoholic Beverages (SIT Unit)
  15. Restaurant Dining Skills (Training Program)
  16. Waiter/Waitress - Food and Beverage (Training Program)
  17. Workplace Hygiene *
  18. Certificate I in Hospitality *
  19. Certificate II in Hospitality *
  20. Certificate III in Hospitality *
  21. Certificate III in Hospitality - Catering Operations *
  22. Certificate IV in Hospitality *

Employment Opportunities:

Waiters work in hotels, motels, restaurants, clubs, recreation and convention centres and other entertainment venues. Most waiters are employed in cities, although many work in larger country centres where there are tourist resorts.

Waiters who have undertaken appropriate training or who have suitable experience are highly regarded by employers. A trainee may commence as a commis waiter. Skilled waiters may be promoted to maitre d', restaurant manager and food and beverage manager positions.

As turnover is high in this occupation there is usually a steady demand for replacement staff.

For Further Information:

Restaurant and Catering

1300 722 878

Service Skills Australia

Tourism Training Australia

(02) 9286 3944

Information for other states and territories: