Why you should study Hotel Management in Australia

Australia is not just known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife; it's also a hotspot for world-class education with a vibrant and diverse hospitality industry, making it an ideal destination for aspiring hoteliers to kickstart their careers in hospitality.

Moving overseas to study can be one of the biggest decisions of your life. To help you make this big choice with as much information as possible, we'll explore the top reasons why studying Hotel Management in Australia could be a game-changer for your future.

1. World-class education and training

Australia is home to some of the world's leading universities and hotel management schools, as well as some of the most highly trained academics and actively teaching industry experts. According to the QS World University Rankings, Australian universities and schools consistently rank among the top for Hospitality and Tourism Management programs.

The Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School (BMIHMS) at Torrens University Australia, for example, is currently ranked #1 in the whole Asia Pacific region and #22 globally according to the ‘QS WUR Ranking By Subject 2023’. Because of the high quality of the education on offer, qualifications earned in Australia are internationally respected. This ensures that students receive an education that is going to be recognized across the global industry.

2. Diverse hotel industry opportunities

The Australian hospitality industry is incredibly diverse and developed, offering a wide range of opportunities for those pursuing a career in hotel management. From luxury beachside resorts to outback camping tours, boutique urban hotels or eco-lodges in the remote wilderness of Tasmania, there’s truly something for everyone. This diversity allows students to gain practical experience across various settings, enhancing their adaptability and employability and allows for a broad array of career choices after graduation.

3. Stunning landscapes and cultural experiences

Beyond the classroom, Australia's stunning landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for a holistic educational experience. Why not swim at a beautiful local beach or go for walks in the bush on your days off from study? Research shows that not only does regular immersion in natural environments help your overall mental well-being, but it’s also linked to improved learning. Studying amidst iconic landmarks, pristine beaches, and vibrant cities not only enhances your professional understanding of sustainable tourism, it also contributes to your personal growth and gives you first-hand exposure to local cultural and natural diversity.

4. Strong hospitality economy and abundant job opportunities

Australia's hospitality industry is thriving, and industry projections support this trend. According to the latest hotel market statistics, RevPar for hotels across all major capital cities is up between 39% to 49% compared to 2019 levels, and occupancy rates in 2023 are sometimes even exceeding pre-COVID numbers. This post-pandemic growth is projected to continue until 2027, with the number of job openings for hospitality managers and professionals expected to outstrip supply over the next five years. A strong industry means secure job opportunities for graduates, ensuring a seamless transition from education to a career in hotel management.

5. Visa opportunities and shortages of hospitality workers

Since the pandemic, Australia has been experiencing an ongoing nationwide shortage of hospitality professionals. Data from the Australian Chamber of Tourism suggests that the market is short by as many as 350,000 workers right now. This means that graduates of hospitality and hotel management courses in Australia are already in high demand. It also means that because of this high demand from employers, a number of hospitality professions including ‘Accommodation and Hospitality Managers’ are on the Australian Federal Government Skilled Occupation List meaning that you will be eligible to apply for a working visa in Australia once you graduate from your hospitality course.

6. Distinct 'Australian Hospitality' training

Hospitality education in Australia is characterised by an 'Australian hospitality' training approach that prioritises innovation, entrepreneurship, personal growth and development, soft skills training, and ethical, sustainable business practices. Soft skills such as communication, active listening, conflict management and complex problem-solving are among the most in-demand skills across the hospitality industry today. It’s essential to prioritise an education where you’re trained in these skills, as well as the traditional industry skills on offer as part of a typical Hospitality course.

7. Networking and global industry connections

Australia's hospitality industry is closely connected with educational institutions. Many programs offer internships, networking events and industry partnerships. Torrens University Australia (TUA), for example, has ‘industry-led learning’ as a core approach central to their teaching methodology. A typical hotel management course at BMIHMS and Torrens University will include a number of compulsory hours of industry experience, working with one of their industry partners which include such key hotel industry players as Marriott, Hyatt, IHG, Meriton, Accor, Langham and Merivale.

Choosing Australia for your hospitality studies is not just a decision about where to get your degree; it's a strategic move towards a successful and fulfilling career in hospitality, and it’s a choice that should factor many important things into account. When you’re considering all your options, make sure you draw a list of pros and cons for all your choices, which examine all the different factors we’ve listed above. Studying hospitality in Australia is an investment in the future that could completely change the direction of your career.