Australian Restaurant & Cafe Association Backs $12,000 Apprentice & Trainee Wage Subsidy in Coalition Budget Reply

The Australian Restaurant & Cafe Association (ARCA) strongly welcomes the $12,000 apprentice & trainee wage subsidy announced in Peter Dutton’s Federal Budget Reply this evening—calling it a vital step toward reversing the national hospitality workforce crisis.

This powerful commitment from the Coalition directly reflects ARCA’s sustained advocacy to reignite Australia’s hospitality industry by getting more locals back into kitchens, cafes, and restaurants.

“We’ve fought hard for a bold incentive like this,” said Wes Lambert Chief Executive Officer of ARCA. “The industry is screaming out for skilled workers. This $12,000 wage subsidy is the magic ingredient we need to attract, train and retain the next generation of Australian chefs, cooks, and hospitality professionals.”

Hospitality remains one of the hardest-hit sectors in the cost of living crisis —with widespread staff shortages, business closures, and apprenticeship dropouts. The subsidy, aimed at employers who take on hospitality apprentices, sends a clear message: Australia backs its hospo industry.

“This isn’t just policy—it’s a promise to every small business owner doing it tough. We applaud the Coalition for listening, and now we call on the Government to match this commitment in the Federal Budget,” Lambert said.

The ARCA will continue to work with all sides of politics to secure real outcomes for Australia’s cafés, restaurants, and the millions of Australians who rely on them.

Australian Restaurant & Cafe Association, 27^th March 2025