The Australian Government has made changes to enable older Australians more choice and flexibility to participate in the workforce. As you may be aware, last year the Government announced that pensioners over the Age Pension age are able to earn more before losing any of their income support. Under the changes, from 1 December 2022 until 31 December 2023, pensioners will benefit from an immediate increase in the maximum Work Bonus income bank balance of $4,000 from $7,800 to $11,800. This means pensioners can earn an additional $4,000 from
employment income during this period.

Skills shortages have been a significant issue for the tourism sector, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Changes to the Work Bonus provides an opportunity for mature and experienced workers to help address labour and skills shortages, especially during seasonal and peak periods.

There is no doubt that older workers are an untapped market, with years of knowledge and skills to offer employers. Connecting these workers with opportunities to work in this
dynamic, rewarding and enjoyable industry just makes sense.