Australia's Updated Criteria for Skills Assessment: #skillassessment

In a collaborative move with the Australian Hotels Association (AHA), Vetassess has revised its assessment criteria for key occupations within the accommodation and hospitality management sector.

The aim is to align with the evolving needs of the industry, ensuring that professionals migrating to Australia under these occupations are equipped with relevant and current skills. The AHA has endorsed the Vetassess skills assessment criteria for the following occupations:

• Hotel or Motel Manager (ANZSCO code 141311)
• Accommodation and Hospitality Managers NEC (Not Elsewhere Classified) (ANZSCO code 141999)
• Hotel Service Manager (ANZSCO code 431411)

These roles encompass the management and operational control of establishments offering accommodation and hospitality services, including but not limited to hotels, motels, serviced apartments, guest houses, and boarding houses.

The updated criteria reflect the diverse nature of hospitality management, acknowledging the rising prominence of serviced apartments in the industry. These accommodations cater to a range of needs, from basic services to luxury amenities, appealing especially to long-stay travelers seeking the convenience of home-like amenities.

For the role of Hotel or Motel Manager, the assessment now emphasizes the comprehensive responsibility for all operational aspects of a serviced apartment, including:

• Engagement with body corporate legislation
• Interaction with apartment owners
• Management across all divisions, such as housekeeping, security, food and beverage, accounting, and purchasing

Peter Wade, AHA Manager of Workplace Relations and Culture, highlighted the complexity of managing serviced apartments, where each unit may be individually owned, requiring the manager to liaise with multiple owners in addition to handling day-to-day operations.

The revision of the skills assessment criteria is seen as a crucial step for international accommodation chains planning staff movements to Australia. With clear and updated assessment processes, companies can better plan for staff development and succession, ensuring that their managerial staff meet the Australian industry's standards and requirements.

Rob Thomason, Vetassess Executive Director, stated that the AHA's endorsement reinforces the reliability of the assessment process. The collaboration ensures that the assessment criteria remain abreast of industry trends and role evolutions, facilitating the migration of skilled professionals who meet the immediate needs of local employers.

This initiative underscores the commitment of Vetassess and the AHA to maintain high standards in the hospitality and accommodation sector, enhancing the skills base of the Australian workforce and supporting industry growth.