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Career pathway

Cooks

ANZSCO 3514

Employed

30,700

Part-time share

55%

Female share

52%

Median weekly earnings

$1,432

Median age

36 yrs

Employment outlook

Declining

Source: Jobs and Skills Australia · ABS 2021 Census of Population and Housing.

Cooks is a job in Australia. The job figures on this page come from Jobs and Skills Australia and the ABS Census, where they are published. The courses listed here lead to this job. Compare the fee, study mode, length, place, and how to get in before you enquire.

Courses linked to this job include Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Marine Cookery), Certificate III in Catering, Certificate III in Commercial Cookery, and Certificate III in Asian Cookery.

Jobs and Skills Australia rates the job outlook as Declining.

Jobs, part-time share, age, and pay appear on this page only when Jobs and Skills Australia or the ABS has published them for Cooks. A blank is a missing figure, not a pay of zero. The courses below are linked to this job. Open one to compare the fee, study mode, length, campus, and how to get in.

There is no single national fee or length for training that leads to Cooks. Each provider sets its own price, study mode, and entry rules. Those rules can include past study, an English level, work experience, or an interview. Check the AQF level, and whether you study in Australia or online, before you enquire.

About this career

Cooks prepare, season and cook food in dining and catering establishments.

What they typically do

  • Examining foodstuffs to ensure quality
  • Regulating temperatures of ovens, grills and other cooking equipment
  • Preparing and cooking food
  • Seasoning food during cooking
  • Portioning food, placing it on plates, and adding gravies, sauces and garnishes
  • Storing food in temperature controlled facilities
  • Preparing food to meet special dietary requirements
  • May plan menus and estimate food requirements
  • May train other kitchen staff and apprentices

States and territories

Share of workers by location

NSW
31.2%
VIC
24.2%
QLD
21.1%
WA
10.6%
SA
7.2%
TAS
2.4%
NT
1.8%
ACT
1.5%

Qualification pathways

These accredited qualifications can lead to a career as a Cooks.