Responsibilities, Visa Pathways, and IELTS Requirements

Australia has become one of the most attractive destinations for chefs due to its thriving hospitality sector, multicultural food scene, and clear pathways for skilled migration. Among the most in-demand roles is the Sous Chef, a position recognized under Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (ANZSCO Code 351311). For chefs from India and other countries, securing a Sous Chef job in Australia is not only a chance to work in a high-standard international kitchen but also a pathway toward permanent residency.

Job Responsibilities of a Sous Chef in Australia

A Sous Chef in Australia plays the role of the second-in-command in the kitchen, reporting directly to the Head or Executive Chef. The duties mirror international standards but with strong emphasis on compliance with Australian workplace health and safety regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Supervising daily kitchen operations, ensuring smooth workflow during service.
• Assisting the Head Chef in planning menus and developing new recipes.
• Ensuring dishes meet Australian food safety and hygiene standards.
• Training and mentoring junior chefs, commis chefs, and kitchen staff.
• Monitoring stock, inventory, and food costs while minimizing wastage.
• Handling ordering and supplier coordination for fresh produce.
• Taking charge of the kitchen in the absence of the Executive Chef.

In Australia’s diverse dining market, Sous Chefs are also expected to adapt to fusion cuisines, dietary preferences, and modern plating standards.

IELTS and Language Requirements

For international chefs, English proficiency is a key requirement. Australia accepts several language tests, but IELTS remains the most popular.

• Work Visa IELTS Requirement (Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage visa):
  Minimum IELTS score of 5.0 overall, with no band less than 4.5. Equivalent scores in PTE (36) or TOEFL iBT (35) are also accepted.
• Permanent Residency Pathways (Subclass 186 ENS or 189 Skilled Independent visa):
  A higher IELTS score of 6.0 overall (with no band less than 6.0) is usually required, equivalent to PTE 50 or TOEFL iBT 60.
• Advantage of Higher Scores:
  Achieving IELTS 7.0+ or PTE 65+ boosts points under Australia’s points-tested skilled migration system, improving chances of permanent residency.

Visa and Immigration Pathways for Sous Chefs in Australia

Sous Chefs are on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), which makes them eligible for several skilled visas:

1. Subclass 482 (TSS Visa) – Temporary work visa sponsored by an employer (up to 4 years).
2. Subclass 186 (ENS Visa) – Employer Nomination Scheme for permanent residency.
3. Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa) – Permanent residency without employer sponsorship, points-tested.
4. Subclass 190 (State Nominated Visa) – PR pathway through state or territory sponsorship.

With strong demand in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth, Sous Chefs often find sponsorship opportunities under the TSS visa, leading to long-term settlement.

Salary and Career Prospects

The average salary for a Sous Chef in Australia ranges between AUD $60,000 – $80,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and type of establishment. Luxury hotels, fine-dining restaurants, and resorts often pay at the higher end of this scale, with added benefits like staff meals, accommodation (in remote locations), and training.

Career growth for Sous Chefs in Australia includes advancement to:

• Head Chef / Executive Chef roles.
• Restaurant consultant or menu developer.
• Pathways into culinary education or food entrepreneurship.

Why Australia is Ideal for Sous Chefs

• High demand for skilled chefs across hospitality, tourism, and catering industries.
• Skilled migration opportunities leading to permanent residency.
• Exposure to a multicultural food market with influences from Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
• Strong labor rights and safe working environments.

A Sous Chef job in Australia offers more than just a leadership role in the kitchen — it provides a structured career pathway, competitive salaries, and the chance to secure permanent residency through skilled migration. By meeting the job responsibilities, achieving the required IELTS score (5.0–6.0 depending on visa type), and applying through the correct visa channel, chefs from India and worldwide can build long-term, rewarding careers in Australia’s world-class hospitality industry.