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The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is continuing to engage with the Federal Government to support travel businesses in rebuilding their workforces, with a submission to ensure key travel occupations are eligible for skilled migration.

ATIA’s submission to Jobs and Skills Australia is urging the Government to ensure Travel Consultants, Travel Agency Managers, and Tour Guides are on the Core Skills Occupations List (CSOL).

ATIA’s submission is backed by data and evidence in relation to shortages, current demand, and future demand, including results from ATIA’s Skills and Workforce Survey.

With enrolments in travel-related traineeships dropping by over 80%, this is a vital avenue to ensure travel businesses have access to the skilled workers they need to succeed and support travelling Australians.

QUOTES FROM ATIA DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC POLICY & ADVOCACY INGRID FRASER:

“ATIA welcome the opportunity to engage in relation to Australia’s migration strategy. Travel businesses have worked hard to support new entrants to the industry, including via traineeships and pursuing new and creative initiatives to attract and retain workers. However, skills shortages are significant, demand is high, and the future pipeline of skilled workers remains limited.”

“In this environment, ATIA supports the occupations of Travel Consultants, Travel Agency Managers, and Tour Guides being on the CSOL.”

“Access to skilled migrants, as an option where local workers are not available, is a vital element in ensuring the travel industry has the workforce it needs to support travelling Australians. It is also a vital element in enhancing the quality and tour services offered, benefiting the overall travel and tourism industry in Australia.”

“Many of the skills relating to customer service, booking systems, and destination knowledge are universal and transferrable. Feedback from our members indicates that some local travel professionals have had experience working overseas, and this has been beneficial in their work in Australia.”