Western Australian Tourism Conference hears how robots could fill staffing shortfalls

Western Australia’s largest tourism industry conference has today heard how service robots may be in a solution for staffing shortages at major events and in hospitality venues peak periods.

At the 2022 Perth Airport WA Tourism Conference, delegates were introduced to a range of robots designed might assist tourism and hospitality staff as part of discussions on emerging digital service technology.

Evan Hall, Chief Executive of event organiser Tourism Council WA, advised “robots can assist staff in maintaining high standards of service during peak service times, particularly while the industry is facing staff shortages.

“During large banquets robots can assist by running food directly from the kitchen to staff, enabling more guests to be served at the same time.

“We will see that delivery robots are an innovative way to help skilled service staff consistently provide high-quality experiences despite challenges faced by peak periods and staff shortages.

“As seen through the widespread use of QR codes to order meals at pubs and restaurants, Western Australians are early adopters of new hospitality technology, as they understand it helps staff throughout difficult service periods.”

The conference, attended by over 300 delegates, heard from renowned international tourism experts, government representatives, and industry leaders.

Throughout the conference, delegates were asked to identify the top priorities for reconnecting Perth and regional Western Australia to the world.

The delegates identified the top five priorities:

1. Reactive Perth as a world-class event destination by expanding Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre and building the city’s reputation as Australia’s top winter destination for major sporting and cultural events.

2. Build back international aviation capacity from Europe, the UK, and key Asian markets such as Japan and India.

3. ‘Sprinkle’ Aboriginal culture and authentic experiences throughout every visitor’s journey in Western Australia.

4. Speed up visa processing and market Western Australia as the nation’s best destination for working holiday makers, students and skilled staff.

5. Establish Western Australia as the ultimate electric vehicle caravanning and road trip state.

The conference also heard from Austrade’s Visitor Economy and Client Programs Division expert Carla Giuca who explored Australia's tourism future - key insights, trends and opportunities for tourism growth.

The 2022 Perth Airport WA Tourism Conference will conclude with the Conference Dinner this evening where the winners of the GWN7 Top Tourism Town Awards and Perth Airport WA Tourism Individual Awards will be announced.