August 26, 2025

A chef's guide to mastering the art of complaint handling

August 26, 2025/ The Armory

It's often the subtle art of managing guest dissatisfaction that determines longterm loyalty and brand stature.

More on the hospitality industries latest trends, news, issues and insights

Shining a spotlight on Hospitality Industry Issues

Labour costs and penalty rates – FSR survey results

FSR's labour cost and penalty rate survey reveals how hospitality operators are managing Sunday and public holiday pressures, staffing challenges, and the case for targeted reform.

Hospitality industry advocates voice ongoing frustration over penalty rates

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.