Geelong tourism industry job expo aims to bolster workforce
Geelong’s tourism sector is seeking out job hunters ahead of summer, as it faces a potential shortfall of thousands of workers in years to come.
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Geelong’s tourism sector is seeking out job hunters ahead of summer, as it faces a potential shortfall of thousands of workers in years to come.
The total number of tourism workers needed in the region by 2032 sits between 6600 and 8450, according to a study conducted by Tourism Greater Geelong and The Bellarine in partnership with Urbis.
Without strategic intervention, the total workforce, which at the end of 2022 was about 4725, is estimated to grow to just 5675 by 2032.
In a bid to tackle the labour shortages in the hospitality and tourism sectors following the pandemic, Tourism Greater Geelong and The Bellarine has teamed up with Workforce Australia Local Jobs Barwon, The Gordon, and Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism to deliver a job expo.
Job seekers at all stages of their career journey are invited to meet and engage in short interviews with prospective employers in the visitor economy who are seeking fresh talent.
Workforce Australia Local Jobs Barwon employment facilitator Tracey Jeffery said this wasn’t your everyday jobs expo.
“Every exhibitor in attendance has been vetted to ensure they have vacant opportunities looking to be filled,” she said.
“Attendees will be exposed to a range of possible training pathways toward fulfilling careers in the visitor economy and The Gordon’s Skills and Jobs Centre will be on hand to assist with resume writing, interview tips and career advice.
“Whether you’re starting out or looking to advance your career, the visitor economy has something for everyone.”
The Sharp Group, which has numerous venues including Jack Rabbit Vineyard, Leura Park Estate and Flying Brick Cider Co, will be among exhibitors.
Human resources manager Jo Forde said the group employed just over 250 people across a variety of roles, and was looking to recruit further front of house staff and chefs ahead of summer.
Last summer it needed to recruit a “massive amount” of staff in the aftermath of lockdowns which was particularly challenging, she said.
This year staffing levels stabilised and there were more applicants, but it was still slightly more challenging than pre-Covid, Ms Forde said.
People had been deterred from the industry due to Covid-related uncertainty but confidence had returned, she said.
Ms Forde said the expo was a way to showcase the Sharp Group and meet a diverse range of applicants in a more relaxed environment than a regular job interview.
Figures released by Tourism Greater Geelong and The Bellarine showed positive signs of recovery post pandemic, with the region achieving a record $1.6bn in visitor spending for the year ending March, eclipsing the initial $1.1bn projected by 2025.
“It’s predicted our industry will grow by a further $1bn in annual tourism spend over the next 10 years,” executive director Tracy Carter said.
“The partnership we have struck with Workforce Australia Local Jobs Barwon forms part of our strategy to nurture and grow local talent to get ahead of the demand.”
The expo will be held on October 10 at The Gordon TAFE from 1pm to 5pm.
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