Representing Australia's Vibrant Hospitality Industry
Restaurant & Catering Australia (R&CA) is the national industry body representing over 57,000 cafés, restaurants, and caterers nationwide.
Our members represent the full spectrum of the foodservice industry - from local cafés and independent venues to major restaurant groups and large-scale caterers - reflecting the diverse cuisines and experiences that make up Australia’s dining scene.
Established in 1922 by café operators who came together to share knowledge, reduce costs, and engage with government, R&CA has grown into a leading association dedicated to supporting and advocating for Australia’s hospitality sector.
Our members represent the full spectrum of the foodservice industry - from local cafés and independent venues to major restaurant groups and large-scale caterers - reflecting the diverse cuisines and experiences that make up Australia’s dining scene.
Established in 1922 by café operators who came together to share knowledge, reduce costs, and engage with government, R&CA has grown into a leading association dedicated to supporting and advocating for Australia’s hospitality sector.
OUR MISSION
R&CA is committed to delivering tangible outcomes for small businesses within the hospitality industry. We offer evidence-based solutions to industry challenges, aiming to improve regulations and policies that impact the sector's operating environment. Our goal is to foster robust and prosperous businesses across Australia.
We work to ensure that the industry is respected for its integrity, professionalism, and dedication to excellence. This includes advocating the broader social and economic contribution of the sector to industry and government stakeholders, as well as highlighting the value of the industry to the Australian way of life.
OUR IMPACT
The café, restaurant, and catering sector is vitally important to the national economy, generating over $40.4 billion in retail turnover each year and employing 350,000 people. R&CA plays a crucial role in supporting this dynamic industry through:
Advocacy:
Engaging with all levels of government to represent the interests of hospitality businesses.
Industrial Relations Support:
Providing expert advice on workplace regulations, award rates, and compliance requirements.
Training and Education:
Offering nationally recognized training programs to upskill the workforce.
Recognition:
Celebrating excellence through our prestigious Awards for Excellence program.
LEADERSHIP
Suresh Manickam
Chief Executive Officer
John Hart OAM
National President
Con Castrisos OAM
Vice President
Greg Hobby
Treasurer
Mike Palmer
Immediate Past President
Craig Carter
Independent Directors
STATE REPRESENTATIVE DIRECTORS
Carlo Tosolini
NSW/ACT
Con Castrisos OAM
QLD/NT
TBD
WA
Greg Hobby & John Hart OAM
SA
Jacqui Poulier & Nigel Boltwin
VIC/TAS
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