Calia Australia goes into voluntary administration amid cost of living crisis

Calia Australia has gone into administration amid the cost of living crisis with its owner writing an emotional social media post.

Two top restaurants in Melbourne have gone into administration after struggling to make ends meet amid the cost of living crisis and crippling lockdowns.

Calia Australia, which serves modern Asian-inspired cuisine, called in insolvency experts on June 28.

The business was opened in 2016 and was popular with well-heeled Melburnians who adored its Michelin-starred inspired menu.

But the pressures of repeated lockdowns and soaring prices proved too much to bear and the company was forced into administration, the Herald Sun reports.

Jason Chang, who co-owns Calia with Ricky Thien, said his restaurants remained open while administrators work to strike a deal with parties that are owned money.

Calia has two venues located at Emporium and Chadstone. Picture: Facebook

“Similar to many small hospitality businesses in Melbourne, the past few years have brought significant challenges to our company due to the impacts of Covid,” Mr Chang said in a statement.

“Calia is working closely with Jirsch Sutherland to actively explore solutions as it relates to both customers and key stakeholders.

“Calia venues are currently operating as normal, and are fully committed to providing regular updates to all stakeholders as it works through the voluntary administration process.”

In the week that Calia entered into voluntary administration, Mr Chang, who is also a councillor, opened up about his mental health battles on LinkedIn.

Calia was popular with well-heeled Melburnians. Picture: Facebook

“Mental health has always had a social stigma, especially in Asian culture, but it really shouldn’t be,” Mr Chang said.

“I recently broke down in city council when I commented on the challenges of small businesses in Melbourne CBD as well as families during this cost of living crisis.

“I have now realised that as strong as I try to be, I am not immune from depression and anxiety.

“I tried to be strong for the community and my team but it has taken a huge toll on my mental health and family. In the end I am human, we are all human.

“I encourage any of you who are going through tough times and are facing anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges to seek help.”

Originally published as Calia Australia goes into voluntary administration amid cost of living crisis