The NSW Government has launched the Winter Skills program to equip the regional workforce with in-demand skills ahead of a bumper 2021 snow season.

Deputy Premier and Member for Monaro John Barilaro welcomed the news and said the initiative would make a huge difference in the Snowy Mountains.

“One of the highlights of winter is a trip to our beautiful alpine region, and now thanks to this initiative, the thousands of families and tourists who hit the slopes will have an even more skilled local workforce ready to greet them,” Mr Barilaro said.

“The Snowy Mountains did it incredibly tough last year with the region dealing with the impacts of drought, bushfires and COVID-19. That is why the NSW Government is providing fee-free training for locals and people across NSW wanting to work on the slopes or nearby businesses this ski season.

“A bumper 2021 season is absolutely crucial for the industry and this initiative will provide relief to those who rely on the tourism dollars the ski season brings.”

Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geoff Lee said the Winter Skills initiative would go a long way in helping fill the gap left by the restrictions on international travel.

“We know that international travel restrictions will impact the ski industry whose workforce usually includes overseas backpackers,” Mr Lee said.

“The Winter Skills program has been designed to help ski resorts and local businesses attract workers into the area as well as from within the region, to fill a labour and skills shortage ahead of what is expected to be a busy snow season.”

“We have specialist skills brokers on the ground consulting with ski resorts, local businesses and industry groups to identify key training needs.”

A range of training courses including outdoor recreation, hospitality, barista training and hotel management will be delivered on location at ski resorts and surrounding businesses as part of the induction of new and existing workers.