>INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW

There are great job opportunities for Chefs:

• Chef Employment increased 11.3% pa in the two years to 2002

• Australian Careers website expects “Strong Growth ++” to 2007-08

• To overcome shortages, Australia needs 3,500 extra commercial cooks, chefs, bakers & pastrycooks each year, above those already training

There are many types of jobs for Chefs, with:

• 8000 hotels, 22500 cafes & restaurants, 16500 institutional caterers, 7500 clubs, 4500 function centres

• Top chefs command great salaries - some become celebrities

• The chef’s career is increasingly professional

• Chefs are international players in the dynamic hospitality industry

• Technology is reducing drudgery in commercial cookery

• Chefs mostly have full time positions – 79% are full time