The tourism, travel, hospitality and events industries will need consistent training to offer “world class service” to thrive in a growingly competitive environment, according to a new study by Service Skills Australia.
The 2015 Tourism, Travel and Hospitality Environmental Scan released by the group identify factors impacting the tourism, travel, hospitality and events workforces and how well the national training system is being responded to.
“Consumers are now demanding new and unique experiences and top level service, at the same time they can check out the competition, compare prices and read reviews on their ever-handy devices,” Service Skills Australia ceo Yasmin King said.
With tourism hailed as one of Australia’s five “super industries” and expected to grow by 20% in the next four years, demand for conference and event organisers has also been pinned to increase by 18% by November 2018. However, restaurant, café and catering service turnover increased by over 10% last year.
“These industries are already very successful, but ensuring training is turning out graduates with the skills they really need in the workplace will help them become real engines of our economy and continue to compete successfully in the international context,” King said.
‘Factors such as the seasonal nature of the work and a highly casualised workforce can stand in the way of attracting and retaining the right people. To counter this, these industries need to develop and promote career paths. Employees also need to be equipped with transferrable skills to expand the labour pool,’ according to the study.
Areas earmarked for skills development include customer service, cultural awareness, languages and digital and technology expertise, including in social media.
