the welcome table: a new chapter for house of welcome catering
Our social enterprise, House of Welcome Catering, is beginning a new chapter as The Welcome Table by House of Welcome. This transformation marks more than just a name change, it’s a deepening of our mission and our impact.
This transition comes with:
A meaningful new name that reflects our mission
Expanded community programs
A vibrant new menu
A brand new website
Why We’re Evolving
Over the years, we’ve learned that one of the biggest challenges for people seeking asylum and refugees in Australia is social exclusion.
Even with strong skills, motivation, and a desire to contribute, many face barriers to entering everyday community life and employment.
Since 2018, our chef training program has helped people seeking asylum and refugees develop professional cooking skills, English literacy, and workplace readiness. But we’ve seen that genuine inclusion, through confidence, networks, and social support, is just as vital for sustainable employment and belonging.
More Than a New Name
That’s why, along with our chef training and catering services, we’re expanding to include community-based programs that foster connection and inclusion.
We’ll be preparing nutritious meals for those in need, participating in community events, and creating more employment and engagement opportunities for people from refugee and asylum-seeking backgrounds.
The Welcome Table symbolises connection and belonging. It reflects our vision of the table as a space where everyone is invited to gather, share food, and meet as equals, a place of contribution, conversation, and understanding where everyone has a seat.
A New Menu Shaped By Our Trainees
Our food remains as vibrant and joyful as ever.
Led by our Head Chef, Abbey, and a talented team of chefs and trainees, the new menu draws on diverse cultural traditions and personal stories. Together, they’ve created dishes that are generous, seasonal, and made for sharing.
Partner with Us
The Welcome Table is built on the belief that creating opportunities for people seeking asylum and refugees is something we do together.
Over the past seven years:
We’ve trained 21 aspiring client cooks in our kitchen
85% have gone on to find work
In FY25, we delivered 1,244 catering orders
We reinvested $122,000 directly into trainee wages
None of this would be possible without our partners and the wraparound support of the House of Welcome community. We collaborate with businesses, community organisations, donors and volunteers who share our belief in fairness, dignity and opportunity, and who want to be part of long-term change.
By choosing to support The Welcome Table, you’re investing in potential, connection with community and the breaking down of barriers.
A Table Set for Everyone
To our friends and supporters, thank you for being part of this journey, from our very first meal to this exciting new chapter.
We invite you to join us in building a bigger table with more seats for everyone.
With gratitude,
The House of Welcome and The Welcome Table Team