Luke Mangan: Australian workers can’t fill Covid hospitality void

Australia’s tourism and hospitality sectors are suffering from a staff shortage that threatens to halt the economic recovery of many businesses, writes celebrity chef Luke Mangan.

Australia’s tourism and hospitality sectors provide over a million jobs and contribute billions of dollars to our economy ... however these industries are suffering from a staff shortage that threatens to halt the economic recovery of many businesses.

When the pandemic hit, thousands of international workers left for their home country and now businesses are reopening, there simply aren‘t enough Aussie workers to fill the shortages.

A Covid recovery visa would enable businesses to access overseas talent in a safe and secure manner — and in-turn increase operating capability to meet demand.

Luke Mangan at his Glass Brasserie. Picture: Getty

These international students will help fill significant shortages in positions like baristas, cleaners and waitstaff.

Businesses having the staff to increase trade will deliver widespread benefits, putting more money into the economy.

Of course we want to employ Aussies first, but if we can’t fill these vacant roles then this is our next option.

And to be crystal clear, international student workers are not a cheaper option.

They have to be paid the same award wage and entitlements as any Aussie in the job.

The federal government should also be using this time to future-proof the industry.

We need young people to be excited and passionate about a career in hospitality.

We need to give them the skills and motivation to pursue a career that can take them around the world as a cook or server or host. We need to give them the opportunity to one day open their own restaurant.

I applaud everything this government, especially our new Premier, has done for small businesses and I have faith in the future with initiatives coming to help our industry. But we need to get students here ASAP.

Luke Mangan is a celebrity chef and runs Glass Brasserie.