Geraldton among regional WA towns to deliver education for tourism and hospitality industries

The State Government is looking to boost the regional tourism and hospitality sectors, with Geraldton among the regional towns to receive training workshops. Eight towns across WA will deliver the workshops, with Geraldton holding barista training and responsible service of alcohol accreditation, as well as an opportunity to connect with employers. The Geraldton programs will run over two days, starting on Monday, April 22. The regional workforce development program is part of a $3.9 million State Government plan to boost the tourism and hospitality industries. The program is an extension of the 2023 initiative in Carnarvon and Exmouth, which helped prepare for visitors to the area for last year’s solar eclipse. The Regional Chambers of Commerce and Industry WA network is in charge of delivering the workshops and will create events to connect businesses with job seekers. Local TAFE facilities have also been engaged to provide more accreditation for those wishing to pursue it. The regional workforce development program includes the State Government’s online job portal, which has had 9000 job seekers visit the site and listed more than 1000 job vacancies since its inception in 2022. Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti said the program was needed to support the industry. “The success of our tourism industry relies heavily on the capability and skills of the workforce, so we’re very keen to continue supporting industry, creating new jobs and attracting potential workers,” she said. More information can be found on the State Government’s tourism and hospitality website.