Victoria University Polytechnic offers free training for entry-level hospitality and tourism jobs

With the hospitality sector still reporting they are unable to find skilled workers following an exodus of staff during COVID-forced business closures, Victoria University Polytechnic is offering free courses to fast-track new workers into entry-level hospitality and tourism roles.

The sector is now reopening with a strong workforce demand however the lack of international students, backpackers, and other temporary migrants who normally fill entry-level roles has compounded the workforce shortage.

The Visitor Economy Work Ready program will provide hands-on practical learning at VU Polytechnic’s state-of-the-art training restaurant, VenU at VU’s Footscray Nicholson Campus.

Upon completion, students have guaranteed job interviews at prestigious leading employers and partner organisations. They include:

• Accor: Art Series, Ibis, Mantra, Mercure, Movenpick, Novotel, Peppers, Pullman, The Como, Sofitel, Quay West Suites

• Delaware North: Marvel Stadium, MCG, Melbourne and Olympic Parks

• LUCAS Restaurants:  Baby, Chin Chin, GOGO Bar, Grill Americano, Hawker Hall, Kisumé, Society, Yakimono

• RACV Resorts and Clubs: City Club, Cape Schanck, Cobram, Goldfields, Healesville, Inverloch and Torquay

• Riverland Group: BANG BANG, Hotel Railway, Pilgrim, Riverland, The Boatbuilders Yard, The General Assembly

• Comfort Apartments Royal Gardens

The program starts on Tuesday 26th April in three streams:

1. Travel and Tourism – (roles such as front office, trainee tour guide, or retail attendant); Course duration: 26th April – 3rd May  

2. Front-of-House – (food and beverage attendant, function and catering attendant or barista); Course duration: 26th April – 4th May

3. Back-of-House – (kitchen hand, cook or commis/larder chef); Course duration: 26th April – 9th May

With Victoria’s visitor economy targeted to reach $35 billion in annual visitor spending supporting 300,000 jobs by mid-2024, there are significant opportunities for career growth in the sector.

Students who complete the Work Ready Program can pathway into further training and education at VU Polytechnic and Victoria University. The School for the Visitor Economy offers a range of courses at all levels in hospitality, tourism, events and cookery.

Both domestic and international students are welcome to apply for the program.

For more information and to register visit: vu.edu.au/work-ready-course