$1.4 million Choose Tourism Program campaign looks to boost visitor economy workforce in regional NSW

A $1.4 million campaign to encourage more people to pursue a career in tourism is being rolled out across regional NSW.

Expanding on the success of the 2022/23 pilot program tailored for the NSW South Coast, the new roll-out of the NSW Choose Tourism Program will include five initiatives including a schools’ program, targeted career promotion, vocational webinars, mentoring by industry leaders and professional development events.

The Choose Tourism Grant Program funding will also support a partnership with TAFE NSW to develop bespoke visitor economy training programs.

Introducing the program, Federal Tourism Minister Don Farrell stated “the Choose Tourism Program is about inspiring Australians to work in a sector that’s not only exciting and rewarding, but is also vital to the economic prosperity of so many regional communities.”

Noting that additional costs have previously been a barrier for additional training, NSW Tourism Minister, John Graham stated “our regional communities are home to passionate, talented individuals but costs often associated with additional training can contribute to the reasons careers are put on hold.

“This five-part program will not only offer free, easily accessible training opportunities that empowers aspiring professionals, but will directly support and encourage job creation, helping to fuel the growth of our $50 billion NSW visitor economy.”

Image credit: Sapphire Coast Tourism.