Food & Desire is a Melbourne based hospitality group defined by creativity, connection and culture. From iconic venues to bespoke events, we deliver meaningful moments and exceptional experiences across Melbourne. As our team continues to grow, we're looking for a Payroll/People & Culture Admin Assistant to join us for Part Time position, with flexibility on days and hours through the week at our South Melbourne head office. Are you the unicorn we are looking for?

This role is perfect for someone who is highly organised, detail-oriented, and excited to work at the intersection of HR and finance in a fast-paced, people-first environment. You might be someone is looking to work within school and / or life-style hours that suit you and willing to grow and assist to be part of our team. The journey could lead anywhere.

Your Role

You’ll support both the Payroll and HR functions, helping ensure our team of 200+ staff are paid accurately each week, feel supported, and have a positive and professional experience across all aspects of employment at Food & Desire. We work under the HIGA Industry award and service many major Victorian events which means our casual staff grow at times throughout the year.

Key Responsibilities:

Assist with end-to-end payroll processing, including onboarding, timesheet collection and data entry

Maintain employee records and ensure compliance with award conditions and employment law

Support recruitment and onboarding administration (contracts, forms, compliance docs)

Help coordinate training, inductions, and employee engagement initiatives, especially during major events

Support WHS reporting, WorkCover claims, Apprenticeship admin, and HR compliance audits

Be a go-to person for staff questions related to payroll, rosters, leave, etc. by monitoring payroll/HR emails and in person meetings – you will be the voice for Food & Desire

What We’re Looking For

Previous experience in payroll or HR admin (hospitality experience a bonus!)

Knowledge of HIGA award highly regarded

A keen eye for detail and accuracy when dealing with numbers and people data

Strong administrative and time management skills

Comfortable working with systems like FoundU, Deputy, Employment Hero, or similar

A positive, respectful communicator who thrives in a collaborative team

Mid / High level excel skills

What You'll Love About Food & Desire

A dynamic workplace where no two days are the same

Being part of a team that values people, culture and meaningful work

An office surrounded by venues and events that inspire

Opportunities to grow with a forward-thinking, fast-growing business

We can offer a great workspace and opportunity to work from home when needed

Innovation, creativity, fun – not just admin.. We love to inspire and grow our teams

Ready to Apply?
If you're passionate about payroll and people and want to be part of a company that brings culture to life through hospitality, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now with your CV and a short cover letter.