South Australia's hospitality sector is receiving a significant boost with up to 130 jobs created in front-of-house and back-of-house positions as part of the Marshall Government's Skilling South Australia program.
Minister for Innovation and Skills David Pisoni said Quality Training and Hospitality College was delivering the training for the "Apprentice Today, Chef for Life" program, resulting in participants receiving either a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery or a Certificate III in Hospitality.
"The pandemic has been incredibly challenging for the hospitality sector, but the recent significant easing of COVID-19 restrictions across South Australia is creating new jobs in pubs, clubs and restaurants," said Minister Pisoni.
"Fully qualified chefs continue to be in demand nationally and across South Australia and now is a fantastic time to begin an apprenticeship in commercial cookery – learning while you earn, and setting you up for a rewarding career.
"Now is the time for employers in the hospitality sector to have a close look at the very generous level of government assistance for taking on an apprentice or trainee, including the 50% wage subsidy available until the end of September of up to $28,000 over 12 months.
"With combined Marshall and Federal Government subsidies delivering tens of thousands of dollars of support for new apprentices and trainees there has never been a better time to upskill existing staff or take on a new apprentice or trainee.
"The Apprentice Today, Chef for Life program includes training in COVID-19 requirements for the hospitality industry, with businesses skilling their people with accredited infection prevention and control through COVID clean training."
Quality Training and Hospitality College operations director Danielle Persico said the program would address skill shortages in the hospitality sector.
"The program gives participants a foot in the door with an employer and enough skills, together with the necessary work wear and tools, to feel confident and work ready to complete an apprenticeship," Ms Persico said.
"Sometimes participants aren't ready to commence immediately, so this training helps break down the barriers and provides a smooth transition into an apprenticeship."
Skilling South Australia is a $200 million partnership with the Australian Government to deliver the skills required by industry and ensure South Australians are ready to step into jobs and enjoy rewarding careers in the future.
For more information about Skilling South Australia Projects, visit https://providers.skills.sa.gov.au/SSA
