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ATIA and My First Job Launch “The Travel Gap” to Expand Travel Workforce

The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) has joined forces with My First Job, the innovative youth employment platform, to launch The Travel Gap, a new initiative designed to inspire and support school leavers in discovering exciting, real-world careers within Australia’s travel industry.
 
The Travel Gap is the first delivery of the A30 Workforce program announced at ATIA’s Beyond Borders Summit last October, The Travel Gap is a structured, national gap year program that connects young people with trusted travel employers across the country. It aims to counter outdated perceptions about the travel sector, attract fresh talent, and create clear pathways into the industry for Gen Z.
 
Over 60% of school leavers report wanting to take a gap year but most don’t know where to start. At the same time, many parents are reluctant to support an unstructured year off. The Travel Gap solves this by offering a “learn, earn and explore” experience that allows participants to work in the travel sector, build skills, make friends, and gain confidence all while earning an income and discovering Australia.
 
Powered by My First Job (https://myfirstjob.au/),  the digital-first platform tailored for Gen Z, the program leverages their tools and advisory network to connect youth with first-time employment in a way that is engaging, accessible and empowering.
 
Known for reshaping how young Australians prepare for and enter the workforce, My First Job delivers steamlined and effective recruitment for Employers including through matching applicants to jobs based on age, location, availability and interests.
 
Together, ATIA and My First Job will showcase the travel industry as a viable and exciting long-term career option with multiple pathways, not just a holiday destination. A number of My First Job candidates have already had their first taste of the Travel Sector through their involvement in the 2025 National Travel Industry Awards where they provided volunteer support on the night.
 
QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO ATIA CEO DEAN LONG:
“Too many young Australians are missing the chance to see travel as more than a holiday. It’s a dynamic, rewarding and people-driven industry with many career paths available. ‘The Travel Gap’ will open their eyes to these possibilities while giving them the structure and support they need to make it happen.”
 
“This partnership is a critical step in addressing the workforce shortages our sector faces and a key milestone in ATIA’s Project A30 strategy. It’s about reshaping perceptions, opening doors, and building confidence in a generation who may not yet realise the opportunities travel has to offer.”
 
“We’ll soon be reaching out to ATIA members who are interested in becoming host employers or partners in this program. This is your chance to help shape how the next generation sees our industry and support a new wave of talent as they take their first step.”
 
QUOTES FROM MY FIRST JOB CEO AND FOUNDER CASS CHAMPION:
 “My First Job is a purpose-built platform that empowers young Australians to step confidently into the workforce, connecting them with entry-level opportunities and providing the tools they need to succeed.”
 
“Partnering with ATIA on The Travel Gap makes perfect sense. Together, we’re opening doors for young people to explore the travel industry, gain life skills, and chart their own course through meaningful, purpose-driven work.”