A range of fee-free short courses are now available for locals looking to secure jobs or further their career in hospitality, as part of a new NSW Government program to help tackle skills shortages and supercharge the sector.
Acting Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said pubs, clubs and restaurants are the heartbeat of regional communities like Coffs Harbour.
“The Kickstart Your Career in Hospitality program provides practical skills to help people get jobs in businesses that need them. So whether it’s learning how to pour a beer at a pub, make a coffee at a local cafe, or lend a hand at the local club, this is a win-win for business and for staff,” Mr Toole said.
“This program not only provides locals with the practical skills and job-specific training required to get work in this industry, but it future-proofs regional communities by allowing workers to upskill closer to home.”
Minister for Hospitality and Racing Kevin Anderson said the NSW Government is continuing to work with industry to address labour shortages, but also foster career progression and retention through scalable upskilling opportunities.
“These fee-free courses are designed to be short and quick, but also scalable so staff can take up additional training opportunities, to further develop their skills over time,” Mr Anderson said.
“The program has been developed in partnership with the industry, to provide on-the-job training and career development at pubs, clubs and restaurants across NSW.
“We also want participants to realise that there is longevity in the hospitality sector. Staff are encouraged to make the most of additional training opportunities to further develop their skills, and turn a job into a long term career if they choose to.”
Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said this is an exciting announcement for the hospitality businesses in Coffs Harbour and a great opportunity for members of the community to kickstart a new career or upskill to broaden their horizons.
“Our town, like many others, is still getting back on its feet since the initial challenges of COVID-19 and this initiative will bring new life into the town and encourage many locals to do a quick course, that will guarantee them a job and maybe even a long-term career,” Mr Singh said.
More information about eligibility criteria and enrolments is available https://skills.education.nsw.gov.au/initiatives/hospitality-skills
