Diploma of Hospitality Management

The Diploma of Hospitality Management is a two-year qualification that prepares you for supervisory and operational roles in hotels, restaurants, resorts, clubs, and catering businesses. It's a practical course. You'll learn how to run a food and beverage service, manage accommodation operations, handle kitchen operations, and lead a team. You'll also cover the business side: budgeting, rostering, stock control, marketing, and legal compliance. The course is built around the day-to-day realities of hospitality, so you'll spend time on service skills, customer experience, and solving the kinds of problems that come up during a busy shift.

Australian diplomas sit on the AQF at level 5. They're usually delivered over two years full time, though some providers offer accelerated or part-time options. The course is made up of units of study, each with a set number of credit points. You'll typically complete a mix of core units and electives, and there may be a work placement or industry-based project where you apply what you've learned in a real venue. Assessment is a mix of practical tasks, written work, and observations. The Diploma of Hospitality Management is often a pathway to a bachelor degree, with credit for prior study.

You'll finish with skills in rostering, cost control, menu planning, and team leadership. You'll know how to manage a bar, run a front desk, or coordinate a function. The course suits people who want to work in hospitality and move into supervisory roles, or those already working in the industry who want a formal qualification. It's also a good option if you're planning to study further, because it can lead into a bachelor's degree with credit.

Australia's hospitality industry is a major employer, and there are jobs in cities and regional areas. The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) may be available to eligible graduates, letting you stay and work after your studies. While you're studying, your student visa lets you work up to 48 hours per fortnight. English requirements for international students are usually IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall, or an equivalent test. Tuition fees are listed on the CRICOS register. Always confirm the latest details on the official course page before you apply.

• Hospitality supervisor – leading shifts in restaurants, bars, and hotels.
• Food and beverage manager – overseeing service, stock, and staff in venues.
• Front office supervisor – managing reception, bookings, and guest services.
• Banquet or events coordinator – planning and running functions and conferences.
• Restaurant manager – handling operations, budgets, and compliance.
• Club or pub duty manager – running day-to-day operations and staff.
• Catering supervisor – managing food production and delivery for events.
• Accommodation manager – looking after housekeeping, maintenance, and guest relations.

These roles are found across hotels, resorts, restaurants, cafes, bars, clubs, catering companies, and event venues. Australia's tourism and hospitality sector employs hundreds of thousands of people, with opportunities in capital cities and regional areas. The diploma also gives you a pathway to further study, such as a bachelor degree in hospitality or business.