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Now you’re familiar with the general information about starting your business, you’re ready to delve into the more in-depth information around opening a restaurant.
Ability to be your own boss and have more control over your career If successful, financial reward will be superior to working for somebody else Opportunity to be creative in relation to restaurant concept, including menus and fit outs Ability to utilise a range of different skills that you may not get as a regular employee of a restaurant Ability to meet a lot of new people, and establish the ‘goodwill’ of the local community
You’ll need to apply for a business licence and registration from the local council. The local council will ask you to provide information such as:
For information on the process with your local council, visit the Australian Business Licence and Information Service.
You’ll also need to apply for a number of certificates from the local council, including:
You’ll then need to pay the associated fees and fill out the required paperwork.
Food business licensing ensures your restaurant can produce safe food before it is supplied or prepared for the local community.
Licensing requirements vary depending on the size of the venue and state or territory where you’re establishing the business. These can be viewed here:
Food Authorities and local councils work together to inspect restaurants on a regular basis. Before you start trading, a representative will need to inspect the food premises to ensure it meets requirements.
The onus is on the business owner to arrange this final inspection. This representative will also complete regular food inspections to ensure your restaurant continues to comply with regulations.
If you want to use a public space to serve food or drinks (for example the footpath) you will need to apply and receive approval from the council.
And ensure you’re across smoking regulations for your state, as some states have already banned smoking in outdoor areas (i.e. NSW), and others are following – Victoria will see the ban come into force from August 2017.
You must also understand and comply with Fair Work laws, national employment standards and work, health and safety law.
Additionally, owners of a restaurant franchise are subject to the rules and regulations put forth by the franchisor.
The right locations for restaurants often depend on the type of restaurant. Fine dining, casual, bistro or fast food – whatever your style of restaurant, you will need to consider the importance of your location.
Think about the location of your proposed restaurant. What is important about this side of town? Where are your customers coming from? Are they coming in straight from work, or are they coming in for a bite to eat before going out for a night on the town?
Are your customers looking for a family restaurant? They might appreciate a restaurant close to home. Are they looking for a hip place to have a good meal and a fancy cocktail? A city location might be the right choice for you.
What is the area lacking? If the area has a number of pizzerias, ask yourself if it needs another. Figure out what you want your restaurant to add to the community and survey the locals to see what they think.
Searching for staff can mean a lot of work. Advertising online often means sifting through a lot of applications. But it’s important not to get disheartened. Advertising online means you will have a greater pool of applicants, giving you a better chance of finding high quality staff.
Training staff is a great way to improve and build on their abilities. Under-qualified staff are easier to find and as long as they are eager to learn, can be worth investing in. Hire them on a trial basis and train them up. They may surprise you.
If your restaurant serves alcohol, you’ll need to ensure your employees have their Responsible Service of Alcohol certificate. If they work in the kitchen, they may also need a Food Handling certificate.
Teamwork, dedication and a good work ethic are essential qualities to look for in your restaurant staff. Good interpersonal skills are a must have in this business. Also look for staff with great leadership skills who you can trust so you don’t have to work so hard.
You know how hard the hospitality business can be: long hours, sore feet and difficult customers. Yet still some businesses take their staff for granted. Show your staff you care, and your restaurant will be rewarded.
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