Diploma of Hospitality Management

The Diploma of Hospitality Management is a 1.5-year qualification that prepares you for supervisory and operational roles in hotels, restaurants, resorts, events and food and beverage businesses. It sits at the diploma level on the Australian Qualifications Framework, which means it is a practical, industry-focused qualification. You will study a mix of operational and management subjects: food and beverage service, housekeeping operations, front office procedures, rostering and payroll, budgeting and financial control, marketing, and leading a team. The course also covers compliance with Australian liquor, gaming and food safety laws, which are essential for anyone managing a venue here.

Australian diplomas are typically delivered over three or four study periods (semesters or trimesters) across 1.5 years. Each unit carries a set number of credit points, and you need to complete all core and elective units to graduate. Assessment is a mix of practical tasks, written assignments, projects and work-based training. Many hospitality diplomas include a work-integrated learning component, where you complete a set number of hours in a real venue, a hotel, restaurant, cafe or events company, so you can apply what you learn in a live setting. Some providers also offer a capstone unit where you manage a simulated or real hospitality operation from start to finish.

You will build skills in customer service, team leadership, stock control, revenue management and workplace health and safety. You will also learn how to handle difficult situations, manage rosters within budget, and interpret financial reports. The course suits people who want to move into supervisory roles, or who already work in hospitality and want formal recognition of their experience. It is also a pathway to further study, such as a bachelor degree in hospitality, tourism or business, with credit for completed units.

International students should check the official CRICOS register for the exact tuition fees, entry requirements and English language requirements. The published English requirement for this level is IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall, or an accepted equivalent such as TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic or Cambridge C1 Advanced. The Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa. While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight. After graduating, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, which lets you stay and work in Australia for a period. Always confirm visa details with the Department of Home Affairs.

• Hospitality supervisor or team leader in hotels, resorts, restaurants, cafes or clubs
• Food and beverage manager or duty manager
• Front office supervisor or guest services manager
• Housekeeping supervisor or executive housekeeper
• Events coordinator or banquet supervisor
• Restaurant manager or venue manager
• Small business owner or operator in the hospitality sector
• Pathways into roles in tourism, gaming, catering and airline lounges