The Western Australia Government Hospitality Job Connect course is continuing to the regions this week, with 28 job seekers signed up to the Albany program running until Friday, December 3, and a further 22 in Margaret River.
The free initiative brings together job seekers and potential employers and is supported by the McGowan Government through Tourism WA, in partnership with local TAFE providers.
During the five-day fast track course, job seekers will complete customer service training, learn barista skills as well as complete TAFE accredited units, Responsible Service of Alcohol certification and Australian Hotels Association COVID-19 hygiene training.
WA Food Ambassador chef Don Hancey will lead masterclasses as part of the course, including hands-on workshops in the kitchen, teaching food safety practices and introducing participants to a career in hospitality.
Hospitality operators will have the opportunity to introduce their business, meet participants and discuss available job openings on the final day.
Previous courses have been held in Kununurra, Geraldton and Broome, as well as student programs in Perth.
The final Hospitality Job Connect for 2021 is taking place in Mandurah from December 6 to 10.
Find out more about our industry workforce programs at http://www.tourism.wa.gov.au/work-in-tourism
As stated by Tourism Minister David Templeman:
"We have been out meeting industry members through our regional roadshow events and we know that labour shortages are a real concern for businesses.
"The four courses taking place in this round of Hospitality Job Connects are helping to address this issue and upskill locals to meet the demand.
"They're also well timed just ahead of the busy school holiday period and summer peak season, targeting students who have recently finished up their courses as well as local job hunters."
As stated by Albany MLA Rebecca Stephens:
"I am really pleased to hear that the McGowan Government is investing in locals through this initiative, which will benefit both local job seekers and our hospitality businesses.
"Learning from people like Don Hancey will give participants valuable skills and experience and stand them in good stead to get a job at the end of it.
"Having worked as a training and careers manager before entering Parliament, I know how important it is for employers to work together with training providers and job seekers to provide industry specific skills."
