Question 1

What is the difference between a barista and a cafe attendant?

Accepted Answer

A barista specifically focuses on coffee preparation and service, while a cafe attendant may perform broader food and beverage duties. Under the Restaurant Industry Award, both roles are typically classified as Food and Beverage Attendants. The term 'barista' emphasises coffee-making expertise, though the role often includes general cafe duties.

Question 2

What award covers baristas in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Most barista positions are covered by the Restaurant Industry Award 2020 (MA000119). Some cafes may fall under the Hospitality Industry (General) Award depending on the business type. Always verify which award applies to your specific cafe or venue.

Question 3

What classification level should I use for a barista?

Accepted Answer

Under the Restaurant Industry Award, baristas typically start at Level 1 (introductory) and progress to Level 2 with experience and competency. Level 3 applies to senior baristas with supervisory duties or advanced skills such as training others or managing coffee programs. See our Restaurant Award pay rates guide for current rates.

Question 4

Should I include pay rates in a barista job description?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required, including indicative pay rates helps attract suitable candidates and sets clear expectations. You can reference the applicable award rate or use phrases like 'Award rates plus penalties' or 'Competitive hourly rate based on experience.' Check the current Restaurant Award rates for guidance.

Question 5

Is barista training mandatory for barista positions?

Accepted Answer

Formal barista training isn't legally required but is highly desirable. Many employers prefer candidates with barista certificates or demonstrated coffee-making skills. Entry-level positions may accept candidates willing to learn, while experienced roles typically require proven expertise with espresso machines, milk texturing and latte art.

Question 6

Do baristas need an RSA certificate?

Accepted Answer

An RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) certificate is only required if the barista will be serving alcohol. In cafes that don't serve alcohol, RSA isn't necessary. However, many cafes are licensed venues or have bar areas, so check your specific requirements and include RSA as mandatory or preferred accordingly.

Question 7

What qualifications should I require vs prefer for a barista position?

Accepted Answer

For most barista roles, mandatory requirements typically include: working rights in Australia, availability for required shifts, and basic food handling knowledge. Preferred qualifications include: barista training certificate, previous cafe experience, RSA (if serving alcohol), food handling certificate and customer service experience. For senior roles, require proven expertise.

Question 8

Can I hire baristas without coffee experience?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many cafes successfully hire and train entry-level baristas without prior coffee experience. Focus on attitude, willingness to learn and customer service skills. However, ensure you have capacity to provide thorough training on espresso extraction, milk texturing and coffee standards. Clearly indicate if the role is entry-level or requires experience.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent baristas?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your cafe's trading patterns. Casual baristas provide flexibility for variable demand and come with a 25% casual loading. Permanent part-time staff offer consistency and may have better retention. Many cafes use a mix — permanent baristas for weekday core shifts and casuals for weekends and peak periods. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to baristas?

Accepted Answer

Under the Restaurant Industry Award, penalty rates apply for: Saturdays (varies by employment type), Sundays (premium rates), public holidays (premium rates), and any late-night shifts if applicable. Casual employees receive a 25% loading instead of leave entitlements. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Question 11

How many hours can a casual barista work?

Accepted Answer

There's no maximum hours limit for casuals under the Restaurant Industry Award, but a minimum engagement of 2 hours per shift applies. Be mindful of fatigue management and ensure adequate breaks. If a casual regularly works consistent hours over 12 months, they may be eligible to request conversion to permanent employment.

Question 12

What should I include in a barista employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and classification level, employment type (casual/part-time/full-time), hourly rate or salary, applicable award, reporting structure, main duties, work location, required qualifications and any uniform or equipment requirements. For casuals, include the casual loading percentage. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

How far in advance must I provide rosters to baristas?

Accepted Answer

Under the Restaurant Industry Award, rosters must be provided at least 7 days in advance. Changes within this period require employee agreement unless due to unforeseen circumstances. Using rostering software helps ensure compliance and gives staff visibility of their upcoming shifts. This is especially important for cafes with early morning starts.

Question 14

Can I require baristas to work split shifts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but split shifts are subject to specific rules. Under the Restaurant Industry Award, a split shift can have a break of up to 3 hours between shifts. The spread of hours (from start to finish including breaks) shouldn't exceed 12 hours. Additional allowances may apply. Check your applicable award for specific requirements.

Question 15

What breaks are baristas entitled to?

Accepted Answer

Under the Restaurant Industry Award, employees working more than 5 hours are entitled to an unpaid meal break of 30-60 minutes. Those working more than 10 hours get a second meal break. Breaks should be taken within 5 hours of starting work. Use break planning tools to ensure compliance, especially during busy cafe periods.

Question 16

How do I manage barista availability for early morning shifts?

Accepted Answer

Collect availability preferences during onboarding, specifically addressing early morning capacity. Use staff availability management tools to track when each barista can work. Set clear policies about minimum availability requirements for opening shifts. Many cafes require at least some weekend and early morning availability.

Barista job description