Food Counter Attendant Jobs in Australia For Foreigners

Not every life-changing opportunity requires a degree or years of experience. In 2026, food counter attendant jobs in Australia are opening doors for unskilled and low-skilled foreign workers who want a fresh start in a stable, high-income country. With an hourly wage of AUD 15.34, legal employment, and visa sponsorship, this role offers something many people are searching for: security.

Working with Accor Hotels Australia, a globally recognized hospitality brand, means you’re not just taking a job; you’re stepping into a professional environment that values training, growth, and consistency. If you can communicate in English, work well with people, and are ready to learn, this could be your opportunity to build a future in Australia in 2026.

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Details of Food Counter Attendant Jobs in Australia for Foreigners

Key Points

A food counter attendant is a frontline role in cafes, fast-food outlets, hotel restaurants, and food courts. The position focuses on customer service, order handling, and maintaining clean service areas.

• Job Title: Food Counter Attendant / Food and Beverage Attendant
• Industry: Hospitality
• Visa Sponsorship Possibility: Yes, primarily through the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) for roles classified as “Café or Restaurant Manager” or “Hotel Service Manager,” or via employer-sponsored pathways for regional work. Note: Sponsorship for a base-level “Counter Attendant” title alone is uncommon; roles are often packaged under more skilled classifications.
• Typical Employers: Major hotel chains (e.g., Accor, Hilton), large fast-food franchises, casino complexes, and catering companies.
• Key Responsibilities:
  • Greeting customers and taking food/drink orders.
  • Operating cash registers and point-of-sale systems.
  • Serving food and beverages at counters or tables.
  • Preparing simple items (beverages, toasties, salads).
  • Maintaining cleanliness of counter, dining, and kitchen areas.
  • Restocking condiments, napkins, and serving supplies.
  • Handling customer queries and processing payments.
  • Following health, safety, and hygiene regulations.

Eligibility & Requirements for Food Counter Attendant Jobs in Australia

To be considered for a role that may lead to sponsorship, candidates should aim to meet these criteria:

• Legal Right to Work: Initial hiring often requires an existing valid work visa (e.g., Working Holiday Visa 417/462). Sponsorship is typically offered after demonstrating value as an employee.
• Skills & Attributes: Excellent customer service, basic math skills, ability to work in a fast-paced team.
• Experience: While not always mandatory, 6-12 months of proven hospitality experience significantly strengthens any future sponsorship application.
• Language: Proficient English communication skills (verbal and written).
• Qualifications: A Certificate III in Hospitality is highly advantageous and often required for visa nomination.
• Health & Character: Must pass health examinations and provide a police clearance certificate for visa applications.

Expected Salary & Benefits

Wages are governed by the Hospitality Industry Award.

• Hourly Wage: Entry-level wages typically range from AUD $24 to $28 per hour (including casual loading), significantly higher than the outdated rates in some advertisements. Permanent full-time rates are slightly lower but include leave entitlements.
• Potential Benefits (with established employers):
  • Sponsorship for a suitable visa pathway.
  • Uniforms provided.
  • Discounted meals during shifts.
  • Opportunities for training and career progression.
  • Paid leave (for permanent employees).

Visa Requirements

Confirmed Job Offer from an Australian Employer

• Must be from a registered restaurant, café, fast-food outlet, or hospitality business in Australia.
• The job offer should clearly state the role, salary, working hours, and duration.

Employer Willingness to Sponsor

• The employer must be approved to sponsor overseas workers.
• Sponsorship is required for most long-term food counter attendant roles.

Eligible Australian Work Visa

• Common visa options include
  • Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482)
  • Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494)
  • Temporary Work Visa (Subclass 400) for short-term roles
• Visa choice depends on location, duration, and employer status.

Occupation Eligibility

• The job must fall under an occupation eligible for sponsorship.
• Some food service roles qualify under hospitality or regional skill shortage categories.

Minimum Salary Requirement

• Salary must meet the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) or regional minimum wage rules.

Relevant Skills or Experience

• Previous experience in food service, customer handling, or hospitality is preferred but not always mandatory.

English Language Proficiency

• Basic English communication skills are required for customer interaction and workplace safety.
• Some visas require approved English test results.

Skills Assessment (If Required)

• Certain visas may require a positive skills assessment from an authorized body.

Health Requirements

• Medical examination to meet Australian health standards.

Character Requirements

• Police clearance certificates to prove good character.

Valid Passport

• Passport must be valid for the full duration of the intended stay.

Visa Application Submission

• Application is submitted online through the Department of Home Affairs with supporting documents.

Compliance with Australian Immigration Laws

• Visa holders must follow work conditions, employer restrictions, and visa validity rules.

How to Apply for Food Counter Attendant Jobs in Australia

A direct and professional strategy is essential.

1. Secure Initial Entry (if needed): Consider entering Australia on a Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417 or 462) to gain local experience and make employer connections.
2. Target the Right Employers: Focus on large, reputable organizations known for sponsoring staff: Accor, Hilton, Marriott, Crown Resorts, McDonald’s (for management tracks), and large resort operators in regional areas.
3. Perfect Your Application:
   • Resume: Highlight any customer service experience, cash handling, and teamwork. Tailor it for each application.
   • Cover Letter: Express long-term commitment and desire to grow within the company and in Australia.
4. Job Search Platforms:
   • General: Seek.com.au, Indeed.com.au
   • Hospitality-Specific: Caterer.com, Hospoworld.com.au
   • Company Careers Pages: Apply directly via the “Careers” section of target company websites.
5. Interview Preparation: Be prepared to discuss your experience, customer service philosophy, and willingness to learn. For roles with sponsorship potential, articulate your commitment to a long-term tenure.

Conclusion

A food counter attendant position with visa sponsorship represents one of the most accessible entry points into the Australian job market for international candidates. It successfully removes the traditional barriers of high qualifications and extensive experience, replacing them with a focus on attitude, customer service, and a strong work ethic.

Backed by reputable employers and offering a legally compliant package with fair wages and benefits, this role is more than a job; it’s a foundational step towards building a new life and career in Australia. For motivated individuals ready to embrace this opportunity, the hiring season is the perfect time to apply.

Frequently Asked Questions