Media Statements - Funding boost to increase tourism workers

10/1/08

Tourism Minister Sheila McHale has announced funding of $590,000 to help combat workforce shortages gripping the Western Australian tourism industry.

Ms McHale said it had become difficult to attract the workers needed to run the State’s tourism industry valued at more than $5billion a year.

“The WA economy is booming and with this prosperity comes challenges in the supply of workers,” she said.

“The State Government has already been tackling shortages with the ‘Go West Now’ campaign, Hospitality Passport Program and support of the industry-led initiatives under the Workforce Partnership Program.

“The new funding will see the Government boost attraction programs, focus on holiday workers and students and develop more marketing materials to inform and attract potential workers.”

The Minister said initiatives proposed under the funding package included:

a second workforce partnership grant program to support industry;
participation in the 2008 ‘Go West Now’ campaign activities on the east coast and in New Zealand;
increased participation in careers expos around WA;
establishing marketing activities targeted towards working holidaymakers; and
expanding indigenous cadetship/traineeship programs.

Ms McHale said the top 10 biggest industry employers would attend a workshop later this month to discuss the proposed initiatives and provide valuable input.

“Practical initiatives and an effective partnership between industry and Government are essential in tackling this issue,” she said.

“It is vital we bring together key industry members to build on the success of the initial initiatives and develop appropriate solutions for the future of our State.”

Minister's Office - 9213 6900