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 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 Headshot

Suresh Manickam​

Chief Executive Officer

John Hart

John Hart OAM

National President

Untitled design (4)

Con Castrisos OAM

Vice President

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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