Jobseekers across the State are to have access to free hospitality training to address growing skills shortages in the regional hospitality industry.
Deputy Premier John Barilaro said the Department of Education’s Training NSW had partnered with Clubs NSW to bring a pilot training program to clubs across the Upper Hunter.
Mr Barilaro said the pilot, with training delivered by TAFE NSW, would equip unemployed locals with specialised skills and an opportunity to reskill for a job in a club
“COVID-19 had intensified an already-acute skills shortage for jobs, with local unemployment and a lack of overseas workers such as chefs, bar attendants and kitchenhands,” Mr Barilaro said.
“Following the pilot in the Upper Hunter, the program will be rolled out to regional areas across the State, making it easier for jobseekers to find jobs in the future, keeping money in the local economy,” he said.
Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education, Geoff Lee said the partnership with Clubs NSW would also match participants with hospitality jobs.
“This customised training employment program will deliver much-needed skills relief for clubs and regional economies, ensuring local jobs are filled by local workers,” Mr Lee said.
“Clubs play an important role in regional communities so it’s fitting they will also become a training ground for registered training organisations to deliver industry-relevant, hands-on skills and mentoring right here in their local club or at their local TAFE NSW,” he said.
Mr Lee said the fee-free training would be funded by the State’s Smart and Skilled program and the pilot was expected to begin in July.
Further information on the pilot program can be accessed at this PS News link.
