“Enough Is Enough
It’s Time to Stamp out Bad Behaviour in Hospitality”
By Women in Cafes and Restaurants
We need to say it louder: bad behaviour in hospitality is not just “part of the job.” It’s toxic, dangerous, and it’s driving good people, especially women, out of an industry they love. From sexist jokes and lewd comments to harassment, intimidation, and bullying, too many women are being silenced, sidelined, or forced to endure abuse to keep a shift or save face.
Sexual harassment is rampant in our industry and still, it’s too often ignored, downplayed, or swept under the rug. The impact on victims is devastating. It destroys confidence, triggers anxiety and depression, and can lead to long-term trauma. Some leave the job. Others suffer in silence. Either way, we lose brilliant, capable women from our workforce.
And we cannot afford to lose them.
Women are the backbone of our industry. From front-of-house leaders to head chefs, café owners, servers, baristas, and bakers, they bring empathy, efficiency, creativity, and community connection to every role. They are not just essential, they’re extraordinary. When women are supported, businesses thrive. When women lead, culture shifts.
That’s why it’s not just about stopping bad behaviour. It’s about actively building safer, more inclusive spaces where women can grow, lead, and be heard. And to do that, we must educate those already in the industry. From the kitchen hand to the owner, we need training on workplace conduct, consent, reporting procedures, and gender equity. No more brushing it off as “banter” or “just how it is.” That mindset is outdated and harmful.
Leaders must step up. Men must speak up. And we all must do better.
If you or someone you know needs support, here are some resources:
- The Burnt Chef Project – Mental health support tailored to hospitality workers.
www.theburntchefproject.com - Lifeline Australia – 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services.
13 11 14 | www.lifeline.org.au - 1800RESPECT – National sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service.
1800 737 732 | www.1800respect.org.au - Your Local Police Station – Report harassment or assault immediately. You have the right to be heard and protected.
Enough is enough. Protecting women isn’t optional, it’s essential to the future of hospitality. Let’s build an industry where everyone feels safe, valued, and proud to be part of the team.