The NSW Choose Tourism Program, a $1.4 million initiative aimed at boosting the tourism workforce in regional areas, is set to roll out across the state. Funded by the Albanese Government and delivered by Destination NSW, the program will target industry workforce shortages by encouraging Australians to pursue careers in the visitor economy.
Building on the success of the pilot program on the NSW South Coast, the new roll-out will include five key initiatives focused on youth, indigenous, disabled, and seniors. These initiatives will include a schools’ program, targeted career promotion, vocational webinars, mentoring by industry leaders, and professional development events.
The Choose Tourism Grant Program will also support a partnership with TAFE NSW to develop specialized training programs for the visitor economy. Federal minister for trade and tourism, Don Farrell, emphasized the importance of workforce development in the tourism sector, stating that the program will support sustainable growth for the industry in NSW.
Minister for jobs and tourism, John Graham, highlighted the benefits of the program in creating job opportunities and fueling the growth of the $50 billion NSW visitor economy. The program aims to offer free, easily accessible training opportunities to aspiring professionals, ultimately supporting job creation and economic prosperity in regional communities.
With a focus on inspiring Australians to work in the exciting and rewarding tourism sector, the Choose Tourism Program is set to make a significant impact on the industry in regional NSW.