Scarf Foundations

This page announces the launch of the Scarf Foundations pilot program, which ran from October '25 - March '26. For current information about the Scarf Foundations program, head here.

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At Scarf, we're committed to creating fair and supportive employment pathways, regardless of young peoples' backgrounds, beliefs or personal circumstances. That’s why we’re launching Scarf Foundations, a new program designed specifically for young people aged 18–28 from refugee, migrant or protection seeking backgrounds who face barriers to work and prefer not to handle or work with alcohol.

It will provide a practical, inclusive and culturally safe space to learn hospitality skills, build confidence and get job-ready, without any involvement with alcohol. As with all Scarf Programs, it will be delivered through our trauma-informed approach and will involve passionate hospitality professionals keen to share skills and networks. Setting this apart from Scarf's flagship program, Foundations will also include the opportunity to explore job pathways into other industries, for trainees who decide hospitality may not be the best fit for them!  

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Video: Roger That Pictures.

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What the Program Offers

Scarf Foundations includes a mix of hands-on training, job-readiness workshops, behind-the-scenes experiences, and one-on-one support. The program runs for six months with training sessions held twice per month.

Participants will:

▪ Learn core front-of-house skills, including:

• How to take orders and serve customers in a busy restaurant
• Carrying and clearing three plates like a pro
• Boosting confidence in customer service and communication
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▪ Take part in a hands-on coffee training sessions with our partners Five Senses Coffee
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▪ Receive tailored support with job applications, including:

• Writing or updating a resume
• Practice interviews with managers and HR professionals
• A fun, round-robin interview and feedback session to build confidence

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▪ Gain experience using real POS and payment systems, thanks to our partnership with Square

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▪ Build knowledge and readiness for the workplace, through:

• A job readiness workshop on Work Rights & Responsibilities in Australia
• Sexual harassment training focused on safety, support and reporting pathways
• Q&A with hospitality professionals, social enterprise leaders and Scarf Graduates

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▪ Receive one-on-one Wellbeing and Job Readiness support, with a strong focus on finding and sustaining employment in hospitality or other fields

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▪ Explore the hotel industry with behind-the-scenes tours and job pathways sessions at Pullman Melbourne Albert Park and other Accor venues

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> If you're a young person who fits Scarf's eligibility criteria, and you're keen to apply for this program, please register your interest here. 

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Can you help us continue running this program?

We ran a successful pilot of the Scarf Foundations program from October 2025 - March 2026. We're currently seeking tax-deductible donations to help us get ready for the next intake of Scarf Foundations trainees, which will happen later in 2026. Please email [email protected] for details.