Motel Manager Needed – Visa Sponsorship available 2025
Managing a motel as a live-in couple offers a unique blend of professional responsibility and lifestyle convenience, especially when the role includes visa sponsorship and housing benefits.
This full-time opportunity in Nelson Bay, NSW, isn’t just a job – it’s a lifestyle shift that suits couples looking to immerse themselves in the hospitality industry. Positioned in a vibrant coastal area, this role is ideal for partners who enjoy working collaboratively, have strong organizational skills and want to be at the heart of day-to-day motel operations.
In today’s competitive job market, especially for international applicants seeking visa sponsorship, opportunities like this stand out. Not only does it offer a stable annual income and a rotating roster that ensures variety, but it also provides a long-term pathway through Australia’s regional 494 visa.
With accommodation covered and all utilities included, the financial and logistical benefits of this position make it particularly attractive to couples looking to live and work in Australia without the burden of high living costs.
Beyond the practical perks, this role opens doors to valuable hands-on experience in business management, customer service, digital booking platforms and property maintenance. The motel owners are seeking a proactive couple who can uphold the business’s standards, build strong relationships with guests and take pride in keeping the facility running smoothly.
If you’re a couple ready to commit to a dynamic, self-directed role with real impact, this opportunity in Nelson Bay is one that offers more than just a paycheck – it offers a lifestyle.
Salary Range
$65,492.01 – $80,000.00 Annually
Employment Type
Full-Time Position
Work Schedule
Includes Rotating Roster
Day Shift Availability Required
Workplace Location
Nelson Bay, New South Wales 2315
Perks and Incentives (As Noted from Original Listing)
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Accommodation/Housing Support
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Visa Sponsorship Available (494 Regional Visa)
Live-in Motel Manager Couple (Full-Time Opportunity with Sponsorship)
An exciting full-time opportunity is available for a dynamic couple to take on a live-in management role at a well-established motel situated in the scenic region of Nelson Bay, located along New South Wales’ picturesque central coast.
Our client operates a highly active and customer-focused motel and is currently in search of a reliable and committed management couple who are willing to reside on-site and assume full responsibility for day-to-day operations. This position is especially ideal for a couple seeking a lifestyle and career combination, where both individuals can work side-by-side in a supportive and collaborative environment.
Contract Duration & Work Setup
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This position will be offered on a fixed-term contract basis with a clear path to renewal, subject to performance reviews and overall success in managing the property.
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Selected applicants will be considered independent contractors (not salaried employees), which means they will need to:
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Possess a valid ABN (Australian Business Number).
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Hold suitable contractor’s liability insurance.
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A reliable personal vehicle is necessary for commuting and external errands.
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Pets are not allowed and the motel enforces a non-smoking policy for live-in staff.
Accommodation Details
To support the selected couple in their transition, free on-site accommodation may be offered, provided they meet certain criteria, such as professionalism, trustworthiness and commitment. Utilities are included but restricted to the use of only the two adult management staff. As part of their responsibilities, managers are expected to:
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Maintain the provided residence in good condition.
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Undergo quarterly inspections carried out by the property owners.
Job Responsibilities & Daily Operational Duties
Reception & Guest Relations (8:00 AM – 8:00 PM)
The primary role of the couple will revolve around managing the motel’s daily front-desk activities during standard operational hours:
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Deliver outstanding customer service, ensuring guests feel welcomed, valued and supported.
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Handle inquiries through various channels – phone calls, email correspondence and walk-ins.
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Efficiently organize staff rosters, manage shift allocations and oversee task distribution for housekeeping and other staff.
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Supervise and train both front desk and housekeeping personnel as required.
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Collect and process payroll data from staff on a routine basis.
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Manage the laundry flow – from sorting and washing to coordinating linen orders.
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Perform pre-arrival room inspections, resolving any issues prior to guest check-in.
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Offer hands-on help with housekeeping duties including:
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Removing bed linens.
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Refilling towels and bathroom supplies.
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Emptying bins and maintaining room cleanliness.
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If necessary, managers may be required to clean guest rooms themselves, especially during staff shortages or emergencies.
Marketing & Sales Management
Part of the managerial responsibilities will include promoting the property to attract new guests and maintain high occupancy levels. Key marketing duties involve:
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Proactively market the motel through all accessible platforms – including online, local directories, social media and traditional advertising.
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Manage and respond to group booking requests, as well as coordinate with travel agencies and tour operators.
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Build and nurture professional relationships with returning and corporate clients to encourage loyalty and repeat business.
Booking Systems & Online Channel Oversight
Reservations and Digital Coordination
The couple will need to be comfortable managing online booking platforms and monitoring digital communication across the motel’s reservation systems, including:
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Processing reservations across all channels – whether via phone, online portals or email.
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Conducting daily financial settlement and reporting on check-ins, bookings and payments.
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Overseeing agent and third-party account reconciliations and monitoring payment cycles.
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Organizing monthly statements and end-of-month accounting.
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Managing the filing system for receipts, invoices and guest documentation.
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Handling cash transactions and POS authorizations.
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Following up on unpaid or pending bills, ensuring all outstanding amounts are settled.
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Addressing online feedback, reviews and complaints in a professional and timely manner.
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Keeping all online platforms up to date, including rates, room availability and promotional content.
Maintenance and Property Management Duties
As the first responders to property-related issues, the couple will act as the caretakers of the motel premises and shared facilities. Their role includes both preventive maintenance and response duties:
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Ensure that the reception area, offices, communal kitchen, staff restroom and laundries are clean organized and hygienic.
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Empty guest bins and monitor larger waste bins for scheduled pick-up.
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Take care of minor repairs such as:
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Replacing bulbs.
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Fixing TV, internet or A/C remote controls.
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Troubleshooting internet or channel connectivity issues.
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Arrange for professional tradespeople when more complex repairs are required – this includes:
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Getting quotes.
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Coordinating scheduled visits.
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Maintain exterior facilities through:
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Weeding, spraying and clearing garden beds.
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Tidying walkways and sweeping leaves.
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Watering plants and removing debris around communal areas.
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Handle occasional painting or plumbing tasks, such as touch-ups or minor drainage issues.
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Regularly clean and replace filters on air-conditioning units and bathroom exhaust fans.
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Monitor stock levels of cleaning supplies, linens and toiletries – notify owners when inventory needs replenishment.
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Conduct routine purchasing of maintenance tools or supplies from local hardware stores or supermarkets.
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Maintain accurate records of all maintenance work, related expenses and communicate transparently with the owners.
Job Format
This is a live-in, full-time position designed for two adults working collaboratively. The scope and volume of work demand consistent presence and cooperation between the couple.
Salary Package
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Annual Salary Range: $65,492.01 to $80,000.00
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This is reflective of experience, qualifications and ability to handle independent motel management
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Potential bonuses or benefits based on contract renewal and successful business outcomes
Key Benefits
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Complimentary housing assistance
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Visa sponsorship available for eligible candidates under the 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa
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Opportunity to live and work in a coastal lifestyle destination
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Hands-on managerial experience with scope to expand into hospitality entrepreneurship
Shift Schedule
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Candidates must be flexible with rotating rosters, including weekends and public holidays.
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Standard work hours span from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, though flexibility is required for emergencies and maintenance needs.
Applicant Questionnaire
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Are you currently part of a couple open to living and working together in a hospitality environment?
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Do you have a minimum of 2 years professional experience in motel or hotel management?
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Are you legally eligible to work in Australia or able to apply under a sponsorship visa pathway?
Location of Work: On-site in Nelson Bay, NSW