TAFE NSW is supporting students of all ages and stages to pursue a rewarding career in hospitality.  

Research shows the Accommodation and Food Services industry is predicated to grow by 13 per cent over the next five years, with job opportunities within the industry set to increase.

In addition, Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows more than 237,000 workers joined the Accommodation and Food Services industry last year – among the highest influx of new workers into any industry in Australia that year.

TAFE NSW is helping students take advantage of the opportunities to make their new career in hospitality, with a growing trend of later-stage career changers leaving established jobs to pursue their passions.

One such student is 50-year-old Melissa Comerford, who decided to leave a successful career in cyber security after almost 30 years to become a professional chef.

Melissa started her training in Commercial Cookery at TAFE NSW Ryde in 2021, seeking a change from the corporate world.

“You can’t get more polar opposites than cyber security and commercial cookery. I was very senior in my career, but I reached a point where I needed more work-life balance. I needed to get out of the corporate world and do something practical and more fulfilling,” said Melissa.

“I knew of TAFE NSW’s reputation and that it was the best choice to get more hands-on skills and industry advice, to turn this pipe dream into a new career.”

Melissa is currently studying a Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery and recently completed the TAFE NSW Tasting Success program, mentored by renowned chef Corey Costelloe.

TAFE NSW Commercial Cookery teacher Deborah Whitebread says more students are enrolling at TAFE NSW later in life, to help them forge a new career.

“We know many students come to TAFE NSW with the desire to change their career path. We are able to provide them with the tools to be successful in a new field, regardless of their previous experience,” said Deborah.

“TAFE NSW has the industry connections and hands-on teaching that all our students can benefit from, whether they are a later-stage career changer or at the very start of their career.”