MILDURA'S hospitality and tourism industry is about to get a helping hand, after the State Government announced a package to attract more workers in regional locations.

With Victoria experiencing widespread worker shortages, the tourism and hospitality industry have been struggling to bounce back post-pandemic.

To help address the workforce shortages in tourism centres, the Government said 240 jobseekers would receive 12 months of secure employment, undertaking placements across regional businesses, while completing a Certificate III in hospitality or tourism.

Trainees will also be paid a wage supplement up to $10,000 above the relevant industry awards over the 12-month period.

The initiative is supported by the $250 million Jobs Victoria Fund, which aims to create 10,000 steady and secure jobs.

In North West Victoria, 71,100 working age individuals are employed, from a total of about 84,600.

While the accommodation and food service industry only represents 5.5 per cent of the employment market, Market Insights have predicted that the industry would have the second highest growth in the area, behind health care and social assistance.

Minister for higher education Gayle Tierney said staff were needed in hospitality and tourism.

"Hospitality staff are in short supply, and it is a wonderful career choice." she said.

"That is why we're backing more people with the skills they need to work in industries Victoria is famous for."

The funding extends to mid-2023 and is for jobs in Mildura, along with the South Coast, Geelong, Colac, Ballarat, Bendigo, Echuca and Gippsland.

The government said roles would be prioritised for women over 45, people under 25, Aboriginal Victorians and people who were long-term unemployed.