The New Zealand government has launched the Better Work Action Plan, aimed at creating a sustainable, stronger, and resilient future for the tourism workforce.
Chair of Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA) Gráinne Troute said that the plan is transformational.
“The Action Plan is both practical and potentially transformational, forming a holistic package of proposals that should bring about positive changes to the tourism industry”.
The plan has outlined six proposals and 14 initiatives which address four systemic issues that the tourism industry is facing. Pay and conditions, firm maturity and scale, and current and future skill gaps are some of the main areas of concern.
The solutions presented in the plan are suggested to create a more resilient industry, and as stated by Troute, will make a change in the work environment for many.
“The creation of a Tourism and Hospitality Accord will require businesses to meet certain workplace standards, recognising those that are already doing the right thing, as well as, where it is warranted, shifting the dial towards better pay and conditions for workers across the industry.”
Assisting businesses to understand the existing technology in the industry is at the forefront of campaigns in the plan, and is being pushed to create better outcomes for all workers and businesses. So too are fit-for-purpose education and training for all workers.
The plan also highlighted the flexibility of the industry, and how exploring alternative employment arrangements such as job-sharing can prove beneficial for employers and employees alike. Cultural competency within the industry is also a suggestion in the plan, with the goal of building a more diverse and inclusive workplace.
“There are many positive stories of people with fulfilling and rewarding careers in tourism,” explained Troute. “Showcasing these people, their careers, and the variety that tourism has to offer should help attract more workers to the industry.”
The Better Work Action Plan will be subsequently followed by an implementation plan.
