Australia’s tourism industry will need another 120,000 workers over the next five years to keep pace with a surge in tourist arrivals.
The Australian Tourism Labour Force report estimates approximately half of this number would be for skilled jobs.
The report said nearly 70% of tourism businesses have experienced problems hiring and retaining staff with sufficient skills.
"It appears that while the ability for businesses to hire workers has improved, businesses are not finding the skills to operate effectively," the report said.
"This may be affecting the productivity and competitiveness of the sector."
The report said the percentage of overseas workers in the industry has fallen from 13% in 2011 to 10%.
