According to government research, workforce demand in these three sectors, which currently employ 706,000 Australians, is projected to increase by 150,000 by 2033.

In response, the government has introduced eeger – an online platform that will post job vacancies, provide training programs, and foster career development.

The goal is for eeger to support employers, workers, and jobseekers in places like hotels, restaurants, pubs, cafes, and tourism and cultural centers, where staff shortages are critically impacting businesses.

The platform was created with a $10 million grant from the federal government to help “strengthen the country’s visitor economy and secure the skilled workforce it needs for the future”.

“The launch of eeger marks a pivotal moment for the industry, offering a national perspective for tourism, travel and hospitality job seekers to find the right opportunities and for employers to access the skilled workforce they need,” said Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell.

“The Albanese Labor Government is proud to support this innovative platform, which will help rebuild and future-proof Australia’s visitor economy.

“My first job was in tourism, and I know firsthand how magnificent this industry is to be a part of. I encourage businesses and jobseekers to sign up and make the most of this innovative platform and join this vibrant and important sector.”

Emilie Howe, the new general manager of eeger, said the free platform is the first of its kind on a national scale.

”eeger is more than a job platform – it’s built by industry, for industry,” Howe said.

“We encourage all businesses in tourism, hospitality and travel, no matter the size, to sign up and take advantage of the free eeger platform.”

The federal government built eeger alongside Accomodation Australia.

“We’re proud to have worked with so many sectors to develop such an innovative platform that responds exactly to what the industry needs,” said Accomodation Australia chief executive James Goodwin.