The Australian government has launched a $10 million digital platform designed to tackle the persistent staffing shortages plaguing restaurants and the broader hospitality sector, which currently supports more than 706,000 jobs across the country.
The platform, called eeger, was unveiled by Tourism Minister Don Farrell in partnership with Accommodation Australia, bringing together job vacancies, training programs, and career development resources into a single digital hub for the first time on a national scale.
“The launch of eeger marks a pivotal moment for the industry, offering a national perspective for tourism, travel and hospitality job seekers to find the right opportunities and for employers to access the skilled workforce they need,” Minister Farrell said.
The timing couldn’t be more critical for restaurant operators. With workforce demand in the industry expected to grow by nearly 150,000 positions by 2033, the platform aims to ensure the future sustainability of Australia’s tourism, hospitality and travel sectors.
The visitor economy underpins more than 360,000 businesses across Australia, from restaurants and cafes to hotels and cultural centres – businesses that keep communities vibrant and connected, representing one in every 23 jobs nationwide.
For restaurant owners struggling to fill positions, eeger says it offers more than a traditional job board. The government-funded, industry-led platform connects job seekers, employers and educators, making it easier for workers to enter and grow within the hospitality industry.
“eeger is more than a job platform – it’s built by industry, for industry. It’s a unique solution that centralises career, job and training information for our workforce needs – the first of its kind on a national scale,” said General Manager Emilie Howe.
The initiative tackles what industry leaders describe as “long-standing workforce challenges” in hospitality, where restaurants have faced particular difficulties in attracting and retaining staff.
Restaurant operators can access the free platform to post vacancies and connect with both entry-level staff and experienced professionals, while potential employees can explore career advancement opportunities and relevant training programs in one location.
“We encourage all businesses in Tourism, Hospitality and Travel, no matter the size, to sign up and take advantage of the free eeger platform,” Howe added.
