THE Riverland is set to benefit from a $20 million funding injection by the State Government into South Australia’s regional tourism sectors.
The Tourism Industry Development Fund will provide grants of $20,000 to $500,000 to support businesses on projects that will enhance or develop tourism experiences, funding up to 30 per cent of the total project value.
Premier Steven Marshall announced the fund last week, and said the fund will help regional tourism businesses recover quicker and stronger and get South Australians into work.
“There’s no doubt the tourism industry is one of the hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, but it’s also one of the most innovative and creative,” he said.
Member for Chaffey Tim Whetstone said the fund would assist recovery in the region following the global pandemic.
“Tourism expenditure is a key economic driver for our region and contributes upwards of $177 million to the Riverland economy,” he said.
“This funding will be a major boost for our tourism sector across regional South Australia who have been impacted considerably by COVID-19 through border closures and lack of international visitors.
“There are more than 350 tourism businesses in the region creating significant employment opportunities, with 1100 people directly employed in tourism, 400 indirect jobs and our government is ensuring the industry remains sustainable in our regions.
“The fund will support the recovery of the industry in regions and allow tourism operators to improve and diversify their offering.
“I would encourage all eligible local tourism businesses to apply for the program and help locals get back into jobs faster.”
Destination Riverland general manager Ben Patten said government funding was “critically important” to the health of the Riverland tourism sector.
“We’re all excited about it,” he said.
“Anything that we can do, particularly in the area of infrastructure for regions, is great.”
The funding program is now open and runs until March 31, 2022, or until all funds are allocated.
For more information, visit www.tourism.sa.gov.au.