Migration, skills, training, apprenticeships – and a renewed focus on Western Sydney – dominated discussion at the recent Accommodation Australia NSW State Advisory Committee meeting.
The committee – representing iconic brands and hotels such Sydney Harbour Marriott, PARKROYAL
Darling Harbour and Parramatta, Hyatt Regency, Trilogy Hotels, Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide, Serene Capital, Nesuto Hotels and Apartments, Salter Brothers Hospitality and Powerhouse Tamworth by Rydges – met at Capella, Sydney.
AA NSW general manager Stacey McBride said the meeting was particularly well timed – coming just days before the State Government released its Visitor Economy Strategy Review yesterday.
“Skills, migration and training are always a focus at our meetings as we look at ways to end the chronic staff shortages most of our members face – particularly in regional areas,” Ms McBride said.
“TAFE and apprenticeships and the need for a fresh push for young people to see hospitality as the chance for a rewarding career were also a major topic of discussion.
“AA NSW had also taken part in discussions around the Government’s new Visitor Economy Strategy Review, so it was great to be there yesterday morning to hear the Premier announce a push to prioritise events, conference facilities and infrastructure including 40,000 new hotel rooms. Three-quarters of these rooms will be in the Greater Sydney area.
“AA NSW welcomes the Government’s new initiatives – particularly the focus on Greater Sydney ahead of the Western Sydney Airport opening in 2026. There is a real need to expand hotel room capacity in the west and in some regional areas to ensure we continue to meet demand.”
The meeting also heard from new Accommodation Australia national CEO James Goodwin who spoke on a range of issues including the upcoming Federal election.
