Retail is one of the largest employers in Australia and it’s important to support the industry in any way possible through programs such as the Retail Institute’s Retail Ready job program and the recently launched Youth Jobs PaTH (Prepare-Trial-Hire) program.
The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) has been working with the Federal Government to assist young people looking to get a job in the retail sector.
“We are very excited to be a part of the PaTH program,” says ARA executive director, Russell Zimmerman.
“Our retailers are already major employers of young people and these PaTH internships will now provide another way that employers can give young people a fair go.”
He says retail is transforming from a stepping stone industry into a long-term and professionally fulfilling career, with some of Australia’s most successful businesspeople starting on the shop floor.
“With the diverse range of careers in the retail industry, we need our young staff to not only have basic vocational skills but also have a wide range of qualifications before they can start on the job.”
In the meantime, the retail industry still suffers from skill shortages and recent changes to the 457 visa program have been welcomed by the association.
Zimmerman says the ARA and its members have been working together to lobby the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) in not only adding, but also reinstating roles to the short term skilled occupation list (STSOL).
“… The industry received a big win for skill shortages in Australian retail as the department has officially reinstated retail buyer as a key role required in contemporary retailing.
“The ARA has been the only retail industry body lobbying for further changes to the 457 visa program as many Australian retailers are constantly challenged by the availability of local talent to fill critical roles in the industry.”
By Marion Gerritsen
