Building a Skilled Hospitality Workforce with Fee Free TAFE

TasTAFE graduate Jack Smith completed his Certificate II and Certificate III in Hospitality in 2025 and is now working at MACq01 Hotel in Hobart.

Tasmania’s hospitality sector is a cornerstone of our visitor economy and regional communities, yet it isn’t immune to challenges - particularly in attracting, retaining and training a skilled workforce.

TasTAFE is responding directly to these challenges by offering Certificate II and Certificate III in Hospitality qualifications that are available through Fee Free TAFE and designed around the operational realities of hospitality.

“These accredited qualifications are a practical and accessible solution for both workers and employers. We offer flexible delivery of the training that helps people study around their shift and weekend work hours,” said TasTAFE’s Head of School - Visitor Economy, Lauren Sheppard.

Lauren said many hospitality staff frequently learn on the job but do not hold nationally accredited qualifications, and businesses can struggle to formally recognise the existing skills of their workforce.

“There are clear advantages to building a workforce with accredited qualifications. Hospitality staff who complete a Certificate in Hospitality gain industry-recognised skills, improved confidence, and clearer career pathways - factors that contribute to higher retention rates.

“For employers, investing in qualified staff supports consistent service quality, stronger compliance with industry standards, and a more professional, resilient workforce capable of adapting to changing customer expectations.”

Lauren said now is the perfect time to act.

“As the industry approaches the traditional “Winter Dip”, many businesses experience reduced demand and quieter trading periods. This presents a valuable window to invest in workforce development - allowing staff to undertake Fee Free training without disrupting peak service periods. Employers can use this time strategically to upskill teams, boost morale, and prepare for the busy spring and summer seasons ahead.”

TasTAFE also offers hospitality workers the opportunity to be recognised for the skills they already possess.

“We know hospitality staff want formal recognition of the skills they’ve learnt ‘on the job’, so TasTAFE trainers can come directly to workplaces to assess and recognise the skills staff already have. This recognition of prior learning ensures that experienced workers can gain formal qualifications efficiently, without duplicating training.

“Ideally, we’d really like employers to recognise their staff and say, ‘You know what, you’ve worked with us for 6 months and we’re really happy with you – we’d like to put you through some formal training’ – That would demonstrate that industry value hospitality career professionals.”

Find about studying a Certificate II or III in Hospitality with TasTAFE.