Member for Hawkesbury Dominic Perrottet today announced that the local tourism industry is set to benefit from a massive injection of $13 million, with the opening of the new Regional Tourism Fund.
Mr Perrottet said the Fund replaces the previous Contestable Regional Visitor Economy Fund (RVEF) and is part of the NSW Government’s strategy to re-energise tourism across Regional NSW.
“I am delighted that the Regional Tourism Fund is now open, offering two programs for marketing and product development support,” Mr Perrottet said.
“With a total of $13 million available between 2016 and 2019, the new Regional Tourism Fund provides increased investment of $2.5 million into the regional visitor economy on a matched dollar-for-dollar basis.
“We must continue to promote the variety of products and experiences on offer in our beautiful region and this Government initiative will drive overnight visitation to Hawkesbury while increasing destination awareness.”
NSW Minister for Trade Tourism and Major Events Stuart Ayres encouraged the regional tourism industry to review the Regional Tourism Fund criteria to learn more about this vital funding opportunity.
“From grants to assist with infrastructure and accommodation projects to delivering marketing campaigns aimed at driving overnight visitation, the Regional Tourism Fund has the potential to support even more projects, stimulating tourism across Regional NSW and creating more jobs,” Mr Ayres said.
Destination NSW Chief Executive Officer Sandra Chipchase said unlike the old RVEF, the Regional Tourism Fund will be open year-round.
“Our new Fund will be open to receive applications at any time, offering simplified online forms, broader assessment criteria and quicker assessment processes,” Ms Chipchase said.
Managed and administered by the State’s tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW, the Fund is available to Local Government, tourism and industry sector organisations as well as the six Destination Networks, with the product development program also available to tourism operators.
For further information on the two funding programs including details on the guidelines, fact sheets, FAQs and online forms, go to www.destinationnsw.com.au/regionaltourismfund.