Addressing critical labour & skills shortages in the Accommodation sector

This submission outlines the critical skills shortages currently being faced by the tourism accommodation sector. The sector has been significantly impacted by the pandemic, losing 50% of its workforce at the commencement, with further reductions due to the prolonged nature of the pandemic. As we emerge from the pandemic with international borders closed, the industry is seeking to meet the fluctuations in demand, with employment a direct function of rooms sold. Housekeeping and chefs have been identified as two areas of critical shortage.