A new program, the 'Hospitality Passport', is giving aspiring chefs and front-of-house staff the chance to travel and be trained at some of Western Australia's top-class hotel and restaurants.

The program, launched by Tourism Western Australia and the Department of Education and Training in July, is being piloted over three years to help attract and train young people for a career in the booming hospitality industry. 

"The program is a win-win situation for both industry, employers and students," said Chair of Tourism WA Kate Lamont.

"It provides much needed support to many leading restaurants and hotels currently operating at near capacity and struggling to find staff during peak seasons. At the same time, it also offers world-class training and on site experience for apprentice chefs and waiters."

Some of the industry's biggest names are on board, including Lamont's, Fraser's Restauants, Must WIne Bar, Subiaco Hotel, El Questro and more.

Education and Training Minister Mark McGowan said the program is part of the state Government's new $3.3 million package to develop stronger links between training providers and industry, and combat skills shortages in toruism hotspots such as Dunsborough and Broome.

"With their Hospitality Passport, these young people will be fully qualified, well-travelled and in high demand for their skills and experience."

According to Ms Lamont, the benefit of a system, where apprentices can move around, without the angst of changing employers, is invaluable.  

"It's exciting for these young kids and very promsing for our industry."

Chris Smith is a former Pharmacist who decided that his life long passion for food and wine was something he wanted to pursue. Along with attending TAFE, he is participating in the Hospitality Passport Program and training as an Apprentice Chef at Must Wine Bar in Perth.

He says the benefits of the program is that he can learn from the best in the industry and gain a wide range of kitchen and restaurant experiences.

"I think it's a fantastic opportunity to gain entry into a career that I've been interested in all my life... I love to cook and decided to give it a go, and so i've started the program," he says.

"I have worked in a top city restaurant that required me to deliver chic, fast-paced and urban plates, but have also also gained experience in top restaurants located along the Margaret River teaching me to be flexible and create more rustic, holiday cooking."

"I think we are blessed in WA, with some amazing natural food and the wines in this region are sensational."

"So, what a fantastic opportunity to experience that in different places, each with different ethos and approache to doing things as well," Mr Smith said.

          

Both Mrs Lamont and Mr Smith also acknowledge that part of the appeal of the program is the great opportunity to travel around Western Australia and see some of the most beautiful parts of the state.

"It's a fantastic opportunity to do some travel and experience life in those places as well, while I decide which exact path to pursue." Mr Smith said.

"I see myself hopefully, one day running a restaurant. I'm really enjoying the fine dining aspect of it and if I could combine that with wine interests, then that would be sensational."