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Media Releases
RCA Media Release
31 July 2025
Latest ABS data shows Australians spent $66.3 billion dining out in the past year
Australians continue to support local cafes, restaurants, and takeaway venues, with spending up 2.5% year-on-year — a strong result despite rising costs, labour shortages, and margin pressures across the hospitality sector..png?width=500&height=300&name=Facebook%20MarchApril%20(21).png)
R&CA Media Release
25 July 2025
Hospitality Industry Demands Urgent ReformAt Parliament House, R&CA and FSAA delivered a powerful message: Australia’s hospitality sector is in crisis. With two-thirds of venues gone since 2020, industry leaders are calling for immediate government action and long-overdue reform. Read the full media release below.
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R&CA Media Release 25 June
Sydney Gas Restrictions Prompt Industry Concern
The Restaurant & Catering Association has responded to the City of Sydney’s proposed gas limitations in new developments, warning the policy could impact food quality, cultural expression, and business viability. R&CA is calling for industry consultation, protections for existing operators, and a more practical transition pathway.
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R&CA Media Release 24 June
Foodservice Sector Holds Firm as Turnover Reaches $65.5 Billion
Recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows national turnover for cafés, restaurants, and takeaway food services rose by 1.9% in the year to April 2025, bringing the sector’s value to $65.5 billion. The figures highlight continued stability across the industry, with takeaway leading year-on-year growth and dine-in and catering remaining steady.
Restaurant & Catering Australia President John Hart OAM said the results demonstrate the sector’s resilience, shaped by evolving consumer preferences and strong local support. Despite cost and workforce challenges, operators are adapting—focusing on value, streamlined offerings, and smarter business models to meet sustained demand.
R&CA Media Release
Wage Rise Concerns for Hospitality
The Fair Work Commission has announced a 3.5% increase to the minimum wage, effective 1 July 2025.
Restaurant & Catering Australia (R&CA) has expressed concern about the decision, warning it will put further pressure on hospitality businesses already managing high operating costs. With almost 80% of operators considering menu price increases, the flow-on effects will likely be felt by both businesses and consumers.
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R&CA Media Release
2025 AFE Finalists Announced – QLD & NT
Finalists for the 2025 Hostplus Awards for Excellence – Queensland and Northern Territory have now been announced, following a record number of submissions across all categories.From cafés and fine dining to caterers and venue-based restaurants, this year’s finalists showcase the strength and diversity of our industry.
🏆 Winners will be revealed at the black-tie gala on Monday, 14 July 2025 at the JW Marriott, Gold Coast.
🎟️ Early bird tickets are available now until 16 June.
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R&CA Media Release
Staffing Crisis Worsens
Ahead of Winter Peak
Australia’s hospitality industry is bracing for a difficult winter, with widespread staffing shortages continuing to impact venues across the country.The Restaurant & Catering Association (R&CA) is calling for urgent action to support businesses facing reduced trading hours, service limitations, and workforce burnout. Read our latest media release to learn what’s needed now to keep doors open and staff supported.
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Fair Work Ombudsman
Vietnamese eateries that exploited migrant workers ordered to pay $802,000
Two Adelaide hospitality venues have been ordered to pay more than $800,000 in penalties and backpay after underpaying migrant workers, deliberately falsifying records, and breaching workplace laws. The ruling is one of the strongest enforcement actions seen in the sector, and it puts every business on notice — Fair Work compliance is not optional.
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R&CA Media Release
Protecting Small Hospitality Businesses with Surcharges
The Restaurant & Catering Association (R&CA) has released a statement supporting the responsible use of surcharges to help hospitality businesses manage the rising cost of trading on Sundays and public holidays. Read the full media release and learn more about why surcharges are critical to protecting the future of small hospitality businesses.
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R&CA Media Release
Record-Breaking Year for Hostplus Awards
The Restaurant & Catering Association (R&CA) is proud to announce a record-breaking year for the 2025 Hostplus Awards for Excellence. With more nominations received than ever before and over 20,000 consumer engagements through a national tagging campaign, this year's program shines a spotlight on the resilience and support behind Australia’s hospitality sector.
Money.com.au
COLD’ dining: 1 in 3 Aussies overspend on dining out
Nearly one third of Australians (32%) admit they overspend on dining out or takeout,
despite the cost of living crisis, according to a survey by Money.com.au.-2.png?width=391&height=228&name=EDM%20Whole%20Width%20(600%20%C3%97%20350%20px)-2.png)
Restaurant & Catering Association
R&CA welcomes the Coalitions $20,000 tax deductions for small business lunches
The Restaurant & Catering Association (R&CA) supports the Coalition's new $20,000 tax deduction for small business lunches, a move expected to ease costs and boost spending in Australia's hospitality sector.
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Restaurant & Catering Association
Industry rejects the Victorian Government’s proposed gas ban
A group of prominent Victorian industry organisations, representing over 100,000 businesses and investments worth tens of billions of dollars, is calling on the state government to rethink its proposed gas ban.
Restaurant & Catering Association
The Release of Core Skills Occupations List is Undercooked
Australia’s peak body for restaurants, cafes and caterers, Restaurant & Catering Australia (R&CA) expresses concerns regarding the Australian Government’s release of the Core Skills Occupations List (CSOL) specifically the removal of key hospitality staff like Managers, Bar Attendants, Waiters and Baristas.
Night Time Industries Association
Hospitality and business peak bodies unite to launch new industry resource hub
For the first time, leading hospitality and business organisations have come together to launch RespectInHospitality, a microsite offering resources, training, and templates for hospitality businesses.
Independent Food Distributors AUS
Hospitality Businesses Plead for Governments to Act on Red Tape
Hospitality businesses urge governments to reduce red tape, which is hurting small business profitability, costing $50,000+ in time, and increasing food costs for consumers.
Restaurant & Catering Industry Association
2024 Annual Wage Review
Australia’s peak body for restaurants, cafes and caterers, Restaurant & Catering Australia (R&CA) expresses concerns regarding the Fair Work Commission’s decision to increase the modern award minimum wage by 3.75% from 1 July 2024.
Restaurant & Catering Industry Association
Fair Work Ombudsman Secures Second Highest Penalties in History Against Restaurants
The Fair Work Ombudsman has secured $4 million in court-ordered penalties against the former operators of three Taiwanese restaurants for deliberately and systematically underpaying vulnerable migrant workers and using false records.
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Latest News
RCA Blog Post
The Real Backbone of Hospitality: How SMEs Are Quietly Shaping the Future of Australia’s Restaurant Industry
SMEs make up more than 80% of Australia’s restaurant industry—yet their story is often overlooked. In this feature, we explore how small businesses are driving big change in foodservice.
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R&CA Update
Record-Breaking Year for Hostplus Awards
The Restaurant & Catering Association (R&CA) is proud to announce a record-breaking year for the 2025 Hostplus Awards for Excellence. With more nominations received than ever before and over 20,000 consumer engagements through a national tagging campaign, this year's program shines a spotlight on the resilience and support behind Australia’s hospitality sector.
R&CA Update
Federal Election 2025: Where Do the Parties Stand on Workplace Policy?
As campaigning ramps up, we’re continuing to keep our members informed with timely updates on policy announcements that could shape the future of hospitality.This week’s update outlines key commitments from the major parties—Labor, the Coalition, and the Greens—on issues such as penalty rates, casual employment definitions, paid parental leave, and more. These proposed changes have direct implications for operators, employers, and workers across the foodservice and hospitality sector.
We’ll continue to monitor and share policy announcements as they unfold in the lead-up to the election.
👉 Read the latest policy breakdown here.
The Canberra Times
The restaurant, the lobby group, and a dinner at Parliament House
A disagreement regarding the expense of a cancelled dinner for ten people has highlighted the significant costs associated with reservations and no-shows at Canberra's restaurants.
Suresh Manickam emphasized that changes to bookings significantly affect restaurant operations, impacting wait staff and food orders. He argued that reasonable cancellation fees are essential for restaurants to cover costs associated with empty tables, which directly affects their sustainability and profitability.
Radio National Breakfast
Why the cost of brunch at your local cafe is increasing
Egg prices have reached their highest point in 15 years due to the ongoing impact of Australia's bird flu outbreak. This situation contributes to Australia being one of the priciest places globally for dining out and poses significant challenges for restaurant and cafe owners.
The President of R&CA, John Hart, explains, "The narrowing price gap is a key factor. We're observing dining out, especially at more budget-friendly venues, is becoming more affordable than purchasing all the ingredients and preparing the meal at home."
The Advertiser
Diner Outraged by Sandstone Point Hotel's Sunday Fee
A diner at Sandstone Point Hotel in Queensland expressed frustration over a 7.5% Sunday surcharge on their receipt, sparking debate on social media. While some criticized the surcharge as a "money grab," others defended it, highlighting the necessity of such fees to cover increased labor costs for staff working on weekends. Suresh Manickam, CEO of the Restaurant and Catering Association, stated that surcharges are legitimate and should be clearly displayed to customers.
ABC Radio Sydney
Guide Dogs Campaign Advocates for Improved Accessibility in Restaurants
The Access Means Business campaign by Guide Dogs NSW/ACT aims to improve accessibility in Sydney's hospitality venues for individuals with vision impairments.
Suresh Manickam, CEO of Restaurant & Catering Australia, supports the initiative but stresses the need for consistent implementation across venues, acknowledging that not all can afford extensive modifications. The campaign offers practical, low-cost solutions to enhance accessibility.
Seven News Melbourne
Bird Flu Outbreak Effect on Hospitality Costs
Suresh Manickam emphasises that the increased costs and restrictions due to the bird flu outbreak are expected to be temporary, and assures that the eggs available on the market are safe to eat.
He says, " our members are having to pass on those costs to consumers. So these costs and these restrictions will hopefully only be temporary."
Restaurant & Cafe Co NZ
FBT Policy Adopted by Coalition
After 25 years of advocacy, the Restaurant and Catering Association of Australia has said it was encouraged to see that the Coalition has adopted its FBT policy.
ABC Radio
R&CA CEO Suresh Manickam on Australia's Tipping Transformation: A 25% Surge in 2024 and Capital City Variations in Tipping Culture
The ABC radio interview discusses the evolving tipping culture in Australia, noting a 25% increase in tips during 2024, with an average tip exceeding $25. Suresh Manickam, CEO of the Restaurant and Catering Industry Association, highlights that tipping remains voluntary in Australia, unlike in the US, where it is essential for supporting wages.
North Shore Times
It’s just my cup of tea: Why I love my suburb
Suresh Manickam, CEO of the Restaurant & Catering Industry Association, has been in St Leonards for over ten years, enjoying its food scene and transport. His day includes managing emails, coffee at The Moody Chef, and connecting with members, while he relaxes at Naremburn Park and enjoys craft beers at Flat Rock Brew Cafe.
SBS News
From electricians to bakers: The occupations featured on Australia's skills shortage list
The Core Skills Occupation List identifies the jobs considered essential to tackle Australia's skill shortages. Here's what is included on the list — and what is not.
"The Australian government has not gone far enough to include key staff for restaurants and cafes, with managers, waiters and baristas being removed," R&CA chief executive Suresh Manickam said.
The Advertiser
Brisbane's iconic restaurants of the 21st century, top chefs put Brisbane on world stage
Over the last 24 years, Brisbane's dining scene has experienced an extraordinary evolution and is now regarded as world-class. Restaurant and Catering Industry Association CEO Suresh Manickam said Brisbane had in recent years evolved into a must-visit global dining destination that was “leading the world” in its culinary offerings.
The Advertiser
Queensland's hospitality sector requires significant reform before 2032
Queensland's hospitality sector requires significant reform, such as tax adjustments, visa modifications, and role redefinitions, to transform Brisbane into a genuine 24-hour city before the 2032 Games. Suresh Manickam, CEO of the Restaurant & Catering Industry Association, emphasized the urgent need for more accessible late-night venues in Brisbane.
Daily Telegraph
Universities claim that international student caps will worsen staffing issues in Sydney's hospitals and health services.
Residents of Sydney might experience longer waits in emergency rooms due to new limits on foreign student numbers, while the students express feeling "devastated" and rejected by the Albanese government.
Retailbiz
Online food delivery helps ease pressures in restaurant sector
Like many other industries, restaurants are still grappling with the longtail impacts that have rippled through the economy since the pandemic. Amid the dual challenges of rising costs and shrinking revenues, four in 10 restaurateurs report being in a more difficult financial position than a year ago, according to combined data from Mastercard, Uber Eats and the Restaurant and Catering Association (R&CA).
Hospitality Directory
Queensland restaurants push to expand takeaway alcohol options
Hospitality advocacy group The Coffee Commune, which represents 900 food and beverage businesses throughout Queensland, are leading the charge for changes to liquor licencing laws.
Restaurant and Catering Industry Association CEO Suresh Manickam said the proportion of alcohol should be in line with the amount of food ordered.
The Australian Business
Catering and Events in a Post-COVID Era: How Forte Catering Thrives
Catering and events faced severe pandemic impacts, but Forté Catering & Events thrived, showcasing team resilience, passion, and Mark Tallon's visionary leadership.
The Australian
Food Delivery offers fresh hope for restaurant sector
Suresh Manickam noted that Australia's restaurant and catering industries have faced significant challenges recently, but online delivery services are providing new hope for recovery.
Daily Telegraph
Australian restaurants, cafes facing collision of challenges to stay afloat, study shows.
This “unprecedented fusion” of pressures over the past year, R&CA CEO Suresh Manickman agreed, “have created one of the most challenging economic landscapes in recent history … impacting the ability for the sector to operate”.
Daily Telegraph
Not going out as much: Date-night economics leading small business insolvencies
Changes in dating habits are severely affecting small businesses, with rising interest rates, living costs, and energy prices contributing to one of the toughest times for the sector, according to Suresh Manickman, CEO of Restaurant and Catering Australia.
Insolvency Insider
The Cafe apocalypse Australia had to have
ASIC data reveals that approximately 1,900 hospitality businesses went under last year due to increased food and energy costs and reduced consumer spending.
ABC Gold Coast
Hospitality sector grapples with severe skills shortage on top of cost of living spending slump
The Restaurant and Catering Industry Association urges the federal government to provide training incentives and subsidies for apprentices to attract more people to the sector.
Canberra Times
Half of small businesses not breaking even as costs soar
Nearly 50% of Australia's 2.5 million small businesses are struggling to break even, much less make a profit, according to a parliamentary committee on the cost of living.
The Advertiser
Cost of living: 49 per cent of Aussie small businesses at risk of shutting down
Mr. Manickam attributed the cost-of-living crisis to rising energy prices, interest rates, labor costs, and productivity issues, noting that cafe and restaurant owners are experiencing "IR fatigue" due to complex industrial relations law changes.
The Australian
Australia hospitality, retail industries fail at record rate in 2024 as energy, spending hurts
Suresh Manickam, CEO of Restaurant and Catering Australia, highlighted that the sector is facing severe challenges due to rising costs and reduced consumer demand, with factors like higher interest rates and increased living expenses exacerbating the situation.
The Australian
Twice as many hospitality businesses going under versus a decade ago
Restaurant and Caterers Association chief executive Suresh Manickam said many of his members “were saying it’s the toughest they have seen in their years of doing business, and many have been in business for 10 or more years”.
Restaurant & Cafe Co NZ
Minimum Wage Concerns
Restaurant & Catering Australia (R&CA), the leading organization for restaurants, cafes, and caterers, has voiced worries about the Fair Work Commission's decision to raise the modern award minimum wage by 3.75% starting July 1, 2024.
Business Times
As diners economise, Sydney’s top restaurants are shutting their doors
Suresh Manickam highlights rising operational costs and reduced consumer spending as major challenges for eateries.
ABC
Unions to campaign against 'discriminatory' junior wages
Trade unions aim to abolish junior wages, which pay younger workers less than older ones for the same jobs, while industry groups, including Suresh Manickam of the Restaurant and Catering Association, support maintaining the current system due to concerns about small business impacts.
PubTic
MINIMUM WAGE HIKE: HEDGING THE INFLATION BET
The Fair Work Commission's decision to raise wages by 3.75% from July 1 is deemed "unsustainable" by the R&CA, potentially increasing unemployment and under-employment.
Herald Sun
Hospo industry is struggling, but how many new fees and charges can consumers take?
Restaurant and Catering Australia chief Suresh Manickam said at the time he was unsure why Melbourne restaurant prices had risen more than most other states in the past year, “but it may be as simple as Victoria (having) higher cost of living pressures than other states, proportionally”.
ABC Sydney Breakfast
Should you be tipping and where does it go?
Tipping in Australia is changing, with card tips becoming more frequent. Suresh Manickam discussed this trend on Breakfast with Craig Reucassel.
Hospitality Magazine
R&CA slams Federal Government’s Budget: “Inhospitable”
Restaurant & Catering Australia has commented on the Albanese Government’s Federal Budget, stating it has “missed an opportunity to assist a sector that is already in pain”.
The Guardian
Feeling the pinch: why are so many Australian businesses failing?
Suresh Manickam notes that consumers are reducing their spending by opting for fewer drinks or courses when dining out.
ABC Online
More than 10,000 businesses to go insolvent
Australia is experiencing a surge in business insolvencies, with over 10,000 companies expected to enter administration this year due to inflation, rising costs, and reduced consumer spending.
ABC News
Your favourite cafe or restaurant might be the next casualty of high inflation as insolvencies surge
Suresh Manickam, CEO of Restaurant & Catering Australia, highlights the current challenges facing the sector and assures that they are not profiteering. He calls for subsidies to help hospitality businesses manage rising power bills.
The Sydney Morning Herald
Dock tax cuts from increase to minimum wage, employers say
The business lobby plans to request the Fair Work Commission to lower the minimum wage increase, considering the Albanese government's tax cuts for low-income earners. Suresh Manickam of Restaurant and Catering Australia confirmed these tax cuts will be included in their submission to Fair Work by March's end.
