A new platform, eeger, has been developed to support workforce growth and development in the tourism, hospitality and travel industries. Designed as a centralised hub for jobs, training, and career development, eeger seeks to address skills shortages and connect employers with job seekers.
The need for such a platform is underscored by the growth in tourism employment. Direct tourism jobs in Australia reached 691,000 in 2024, a 5.7% increase from the previous year, with projections suggesting continued growth of 6% over the next five years and 12% over the next decade. With thousands of new roles expected, initiatives like eeger could provide valuable tools for workforce development.
What is eeger?
Developed by Accommodation Australia, with support from an industry advisory committee and funding from a $10 million grant by the Australian Government, eeger is positioned as a resource for job seekers, employers, and the broader industry. It combines job listings, training opportunities, and career insights in one platform, with early registrations open ahead of its March 2025 launch.
“The industry-led platform aims to inspire and empower job seekers, support employers, and strengthen the visitor economy workforce at every stage of their journey,” Accommodation Australia CEO James Goodwin said.
“I hope individuals will discover careers they may not have known about and ones that are more than just jobs but pathways to fulfilling lives in a thriving sector.”
Backed by an advisory group spanning multiple sectors, eeger aims to address the unique workforce challenges faced by industries as diverse as travel, accommodation, and hospitality.
The platform provides a space for collaboration among businesses, educators, and service providers, ensuring it remains relevant and effective for the evolving needs of the sector.
Key features for job seekers and employers
For job seekers, eeger provides tools to explore career opportunities across sectors, match existing skills to potential roles, and access resources to build expertise in dynamic industries. The platform also highlights training programs to help individuals upskill or transition into new areas within tourism, hospitality, and travel.
Employers can benefit from free job postings for the first 12 months, targeted recruitment tools, and insights designed to attract and retain talent. The goal is to offer a simple, effective way to connect with motivated candidates who are already engaged with the industry.
“This one stop shop will help tourism and hospitality workers grow their skill sets to continue to build their careers and help businesses find the employees they need,” Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell said.
My first job was in tourism, and I know firsthand the opportunities, development, and growth it offers.”
Looking ahead to a growing workforce
As Australia’s visitor economy continues to recover and expand, workforce challenges remain a critical focus. With 55,000 new roles projected over the next five years, the demand for a skilled, adaptable workforce is clear.
“Together we’re shaping a sustainable and thriving future for the visitor economy,” David Mansfield, Chair of Accommodation Australia, said.
The news comes as the Australian Tourism Industry Association (ATIA) recently announced its split from Australian Travel Careers Council Chief Executive Officer Rick Myatt. Myatt will transition to focusing on education and workforce development initiatives, reflecting the growing emphasis on strengthening skills and career pathways within the tourism sector.
With eeger set to launch in March 2025, the development of eeger represents an effort to address these challenges head-on. By offering a combination of career development resources, training opportunities, and tools for collaboration, it aims to strengthen the workforce at every stage.
Early registrations are now open for individuals and businesses interested in staying updated on eeger.
