The recent webinar hosted by Rehman Sheriff Group in partnership with Australian Restaurant & Cafe Association brought together hospitality operators, industry leaders, and legal experts to address one of the sector’s most pressing challenges: workforce shortages.
With strong attendance and engagement from business owners and decision makers, the session delivered clear, practical insights into how Premium Dining Labour Agreements can support hospitality businesses in securing skilled international talent.
A Strong Industry Perspective from Wes Lambert
A key highlight of the webinar was the contribution from Wes Lambert, whose explanation of Premium Dining Labour Agreements provided valuable clarity for attendees.
Wes outlined:
• Why labour shortages continue to impact the hospitality sector
• The realities faced by restaurant operators trying to recruit locally
• How Premium Dining Labour Agreements were developed to address these gaps
• The importance of maintaining industry standards while accessing global talent
His insights grounded the discussion in real operational challenges, helping attendees understand not just the policy, but the practical need behind it.
Understanding Premium Dining Labour Agreements
Premium Dining Labour Agreements are designed to support eligible hospitality businesses that require access to skilled international workers, particularly in specialised culinary roles.
During the session, attendees gained a clearer understanding of:
• Which businesses may qualify
• What roles can be sponsored
• The process of applying for a labour agreement
• Employer obligations and compliance requirements
For many attendees, this was the first time they had seen a structured pathway to address long-term staffing challenges.
Why This Matters for Hospitality Businesses
Australia’s hospitality industry continues to experience:
• Shortages of experienced chefs and kitchen staff
• High turnover rates
• Increasing pressure on business operations
• Difficulty maintaining consistent service standards
As highlighted during the webinar, relying solely on local recruitment is no longer sufficient for many businesses. Access to international talent, when managed correctly, provides a sustainable solution.
This aligns with RSG’s broader mission of supporting Australian industries through end-to-end workforce solutions, not just visa processing.
Key Takeaways from the Webinar
1. Labour Agreements Are Not a Shortcut
They require proper documentation, justification, and compliance. Businesses must demonstrate genuine need and meet eligibility criteria.
2. Workforce Strategy Is Critical
Labour agreements work best when part of a long-term workforce planning approach, not a reactive hiring decision.
3. Compliance Cannot Be Overlooked
Employers must meet strict obligations around wages, working conditions, and sponsorship responsibilities.
4. Industry Collaboration Matters
Partnerships between organisations like ARCA and RSG play a key role in educating businesses and improving access to workforce solutions.
The Role of RSG in Supporting Employers
Rehman Sheriff Group supports hospitality businesses by providing:
• Labour agreement strategy and application support
• Employer sponsorship guidance
• End-to-end visa processing
• Ongoing compliance and workforce support
This integrated approach reflects RSG’s position as a global workforce solutions partner, helping businesses recruit, relocate, and retain talent effectively.
What’s Next for Hospitality Businesses
For operators struggling to fill critical roles, the key question is no longer whether international talent should be part of the strategy, but how to implement it correctly and sustainably.
Premium Dining Labour Agreements present a viable pathway, but success depends on:
• Proper eligibility assessment
• Strategic planning
• Strong compliance systems
• The right advisory support
Missed the Webinar?
If you were unable to attend, or would like to explore how labour agreements could apply to your business, our team is available to assist.
Book a consultation to discuss your workforce needs and explore the right solution for your business.
