The forum, to be hosted by Regional Development Australia [RDA] Central West, will inform businesses and employers on the different skilled visa options and pathways available in the event positions are unable to be filled by Australian workers.

RDA Central West chief executive officer Sam Harma said the forums will provide insightful food for thought for businesses struggling to fill vacant positions.

"The preference is to employ local staff but on occasions, certain businesses can struggle to find the right person for a particular role," Mr Harma said.

"We want to give regional businesses a greater insight into the skilled visas available, and how a migrant worker with the right qualifications can enhance their organisation."

Mr Harma said there's a lot of skill shortages in businesses which aren't traditionally associated with regional areas.

There's a business in Orange currently experiencing a major shortage in program developers, which isn't a role you'd generally expect an abundance of in a regional community," he said.

"At the moment, there's over 600 types of jobs on our regional skilled visa list, ranging from chefs to engineers and specific agricultural staff."

Mr Harma said skilled migrant workers can bring a significant amount of value to local businesses.

"An employee on a skilled visa can help any business build a good foundation for the future," he said.

"In addition, they can help culturally diversify the community they move to for work."

Mr Harma said another key challenge is keeping workers in regional areas.

"There are many advantages to considering a career in a regional area, such as a more relaxed lifestyle, affordable housing and a greater sense of community," he said.

The Bathurst forum will take place at CSU's James Hardie Room on Tuesday, March 17, while the Orange forum will be held at the Orange CWA Hall the following day. Both forums will start at 4.30pm.