The review will update the Certificate III in Travel, Certificate III in Tourism and Certificate III in Guiding to ensure they reflect current industry practice and deliver job-ready graduates.
Approved and funded by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, this work responds directly to industry feedback that entry-level qualifications have not kept pace with digital transformation, evolving visitor expectations and new business models.
As the Jobs and Skills Council responsible for custodianship of the SIT Tourism, Travel and Hospitality Training Package, SaCSA is authorised by Skills Ministers to lead training product development and qualification reviews.
This project will be undertaken in line with the national Training Package Organising Framework (TPOF).
“Tourism, travel and guiding roles have changed dramatically, but the core qualifications that introduce people to these careers have not evolved at the same pace,” said Natalie Turmine, SaCSA Chief Executive Officer.
“Industry has been clear that some Certificate III training products no longer fully reflect current workplace practice or the fundamental skills employers require.
“This review is about strengthening these entry-level qualifications so they are relevant, flexible and fit for purpose for employers and learners.”
The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) says this project reflects a shared commitment across the sector to ensure foundational qualifications align with contemporary industry practice.
“Through its role on SaCSA’s Strategic Workforce Advisory Group, ATIA has been driving the case for a full review of travel qualifications, and it’s encouraging to see this work underway,” said Dean Long, ATIA CEO.
“Members have been clear that the current Certificate III in Travel doesn’t fully reflect the skills and capabilities needed in today’s travel industry.
“This is the moment to lift the standard and ensure graduates are genuinely job-ready. ATIA will continue playing a hands-on role in shaping the outcome so the updated qualifications reflect real industry practice and deliver the skills employers need.”
In recent years, the tourism, travel and guiding sectors have undergone major transformation driven by digital technology, changing visitor expectations, new business models and workforce disruption.
SaCSA will engage widely with employers, peak bodies, industry representatives, unions, registered training organisations and other stakeholders to inform the review and ensure the updated qualifications are fit for purpose and industry endorsed.
The project forms part of SaCSA’s broader commitment to work with industry in modernising training products, strengthening workforce pathways and supporting a resilient, future-ready tourism and travel workforce.
