Café owner toolkit
Host an English conversation night at your café.
A quiet weeknight can become your most loyal crowd. International students want to practise English with locals in a relaxed place. You provide the tables, a host and a coffee deal.
A simple format
- One evening a week or fortnight, 60 to 90 minutes, in your quiet period.
- Small tables of four to six: mix learners and locals.
- One host welcomes everyone, explains the rules and keeps time.
- A set drink deal, such as “coffee and a biscuit for $X”.
Run sheet
| Time | What happens |
|---|---|
| 0:00 | Welcome, names, how the night works. |
| 0:10 | Table talk with a starter question. |
| 0:35 | Swap tables. New people, new topic. |
| 1:00 | Word of the night: everyone learns one new word. |
| 1:20 | Thank you and the next date. |
Twelve conversation starters
- What is your favourite coffee here so far?
- What do you miss from home?
- What is one new thing you tried this week?
- What surprised you about Australia?
- What do you do on weekends?
- Where would you like to travel next?
- What is a good place to study near here?
- What food from your country should we try?
- What is the hardest English word for you?
- Tell me about your town.
- What do you want to learn this year?
- What can I help you find in the neighbourhood?
Warm-up phrases: first week in Australia.
Simple rules
- Be kind. Everyone is learning.
- Let people finish their sentences.
- No corrections unless someone asks.
- Phones away, unless you are looking up a word.
- Everyone speaks at least once.
- Keep topics friendly: no pressure about visas, money or politics.
Sample poster text
- English conversation night at [café name]. Every [day], [time]. All levels welcome. Coffee and a biscuit for $X. Come and chat.
Promote it
- Your café window and menu QR code.
- Notice boards at nearby colleges and language schools (ask first).
- Local community and student groups, with their permission.
- Your Instagram and Google Business post.
- Tell Chatsifieds about your event and see sponsor options.
Safety and permissions
- Check any rules for events, music or groups with your local council and landlord.
- Check your insurance covers events.
- Choose a host who is comfortable keeping the group safe and respectful.
- Do not collect personal details you do not need.
These are language tips, not legal or financial advice. For food labelling, allergen rules, surcharges, signage and trading rules, check FSANZ, your local council or state food authority, and the ACCC. Rules differ by state.