The New South Wales (NSW) Liquor and Gaming Authority has announced the extension of free hospitality refresher courses into 2023 to address ongoing staff shortages in the state. The gambling sector, in particular, has been impacted by labor market challenges, with many employees leaving the industry due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The initiative aims to support these individuals in renewing their mandatory certifications, ensuring that staff in the gambling and alcohol industries maintain a high level of training.
Addressing Certification Lapses:
The NSW government recognizes that many individuals who previously worked in the hospitality sector have allowed their mandatory certifications to lapse. In response, the extension of free refresher courses aims to facilitate the easy and cost-free renewal of these certifications, removing any barriers that may hinder individuals from re-entering the industry. The courses are specifically designed to ensure that staff working in the gambling and alcohol sectors receive appropriate training to meet industry standards and regulations.
Importance of Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) and Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG) Certifications:
The hospitality sector encompasses a range of roles beyond bar and wait staff. Security personnel, crowd control staff, and promotional workers are also required to hold RSA certificates. Similarly, employees working with poker machines must possess RCG certificates to identify and minimize gambling harm effectively. These certifications play a vital role in maintaining a safe and responsible gambling environment, protecting both customers and the integrity of the industry.
Industry Support and Encouragement:
Industry representatives have expressed gratitude for the government’s initiative to extend the free refresher courses. The Australian Hotels Association NSW has commended the reduction of red tape, emphasizing that it makes it easier for former industry workers to return and pick up shifts. They particularly encourage experienced older workers to consider rejoining the workforce, utilizing their years of expertise behind the bar. The industry recognizes the importance of a skilled workforce and the positive impact it has on customer experiences and overall operations.
Successful Participation and Completion:
Since February, over 16,000 individuals have already taken advantage of the NSW Liquor and Gaming Authority’s free RSA and RCG refresher courses. This impressive participation highlights the demand for retraining opportunities among former industry professionals. By offering these courses free of charge, the government aims to incentivize individuals to update their certifications promptly, reducing barriers to re-entry and revitalizing the labor pool.
Implications for the Gambling Sector:
The extended refresher courses have significant implications for the gambling sector in NSW, which has been grappling with staffing challenges in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this issue, leading to a shortage of experienced and certified staff members. By providing accessible and cost-free opportunities for former employees to renew their certifications, the government aims to address the labor shortage and ensure that the gambling industry operates responsibly and efficiently.
The extension of free hospitality refresher courses in NSW demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting the hospitality sector, specifically the gambling industry, amidst ongoing staffing challenges. By facilitating the renewal of certifications, the initiative aims to reinvigorate the labor market and ensure that employees possess the necessary skills to provide responsible service of alcohol and conduct gambling activities.
The industry’s positive response and high participation rates reflect the value placed on maintaining a well-trained workforce. As the courses continue to benefit former industry professionals, the gambling sector in NSW can expect a revitalized workforce that prioritizes customer safety and responsible gambling practices.