Hospitality operators across Australia are continuing to voice frustration over penalty rates, with small, independent venues saying current wage structures make it financially unviable to trade on public holidays and extended weekends. Central Coast restaurateur Sean Grobbelaar argues that while fair pay for staff is essential, inflexible awards are forcing businesses to reduce trading hours, cut jobs and close during peak tourism periods—raising broader questions about sustainability, workforce participation and the future shape of the hospitality industry.