In a significant boost to Tasmania’s tourism and hospitality sector, Premier and Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Jeremy Rockliff, officially launched the Visitor Experience Training (VXT) hotel school on Sunday. The new institution is set to provide the next generation of hospitality workers with the skills and training they need to excel in the industry.
Premier Rockliff emphasised the importance of the sector, which employs one in eight Tasmanians. “The tourism and hospitality sector is a cornerstone of our economy, a true jobs powerhouse,” he remarked. “We recognize the growing demand for skilled workers across the state, and that’s why we’re committed to investing in practical, job-ready training to prepare our young people for careers in this dynamic industry.”
Visitor Experience Training, a purpose-built organisation, is dedicated to equipping the Tasmanian workforce with the skills needed to deliver exceptional experiences that reflect the unique character of the island. The VXT hotel school is the latest initiative aimed at bolstering the local tourism and hospitality industry.
Premier Rockliff announced that the government has committed $1.3 million as part of the 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future. This funding will support VXT in delivering short courses designed to upskill Tasmanians in key areas such as housekeeping, food and beverage service, front-of-house training, and bar operations. “Through this investment, we are helping to grow the workforce that our visitor economy needs to thrive,” the Premier added.
The Tasmanian Government’s support for the tourism and hospitality industry extends beyond this initiative. Premier Rockliff highlighted an additional $12 million investment into the Visitor Economy Strategy, reinforcing the government’s commitment to strengthening the sector.
“We’re also launching a $50 million Regional Tourism Loan Scheme, and will be delivering a $500,000 Regional Hospitality Revival Fund,” he said. “These investments are crucial as we build on Tasmania’s reputation as a world-leading tourism destination. Our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future is focused on ensuring that our visitor economy remains vibrant and continues to grow.”
The launch of the VXT hotel school marks a new chapter in Tasmania’s tourism and hospitality story, one that is centred on providing young Tasmanians with the tools they need to succeed in an industry that is vital to the state’s future.
Subscribe to our newsletter below