New campaign to bring mature workers into the workforce

The West Australian government has rolled out a campaign to attract mature workers into roles that promote flexibility and benefits.

The hospitality and tourism industries are reportedly great for mature workers as there are casual and part-time working opportunities, options for flexibility, and provide worthwhile benefits. Attracting more people into these positions will also help to bolster the economy.

“Our local tourism and hospitality industry is the best in the country – we have world-class tourist attractions, hotels, restaurants and venues that offer enjoyable and exciting working environments for people of all ages,” said Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti.

“The WA government is committed to supporting tourism and hospitality employers to fill job vacancies and retain workers while enhancing opportunities for mature-age people to earn an income through casual or part-time work.

“This campaign to encourage prospective mature age employees to take roles in tourism and hospitality perfectly complements the WA government’s $3.9 million commitment to develop workforce skills in the industry.”

A range of initiatives are expected to be introduced, encouraging those aged 45 and over to take up work in these industries, including training and upskilling incentives.

This includes free training and job placement assistance, as well as up to $1,500 to cover work-related costs such as equipment and uniforms.

The government is urging employers to give mature workers a chance. There will be a variety of short-term programs to assist in reducing current skills shortages and more long-term ones down the road to sustain the change and create future talent pipelines for organisations.

This announcement comes after the Federal Government's offer to grant State and Territory governments a share of $7.5 million for programs to attract workers to the visitor economy.

Tourism WA held the Tourism and Hospitality Connect event at Perth Town Hall on 31 July. This showcase served as a knowledge hub for those who may be interested in pursuing a hospitality or tourism job, and allowed potential workers to connect with employers.

Not only will this initiative help to boost the economy, but it will also bring much-needed talent and skills into these in-need industries.

The upcoming amendments to casual workers’ rights will see many transitions into full-time work. WA government’s initiative may help to attract some more casual and part-time workers into the tourism and hospitality industries to fill gaps.

Jack Campbell

Jack is the editor at HR Leader.