$2 million Major Events Funding Boost announced to strengthen Territory events pipeline.
Boost comes as a new round of event funding provides $1.5 million to support local, sporting and major events.
This Budget builds on the foundations of our first Budget, continuing our work to reduce crime, rebuild the economy and restore our Territory lifestyle.
On the back of two recent record-breaking major events, the Finocchiaro CLP Government is supercharging the Territory's events calendar with a $2 million major events boost.
The investment comes as the latest round Events Funding Program recipients is announced, filling-out a jam-packed pipeline of Territory events.
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality and Minister for Major Events, Marie-Clare Boothby said that events showcase the Territory's unique lifestyle, and formed a crucial part of the government's plan to grow the visitor economy - particularly in our regions.
"Last year was our biggest year yet for events, and this year, we're building on that momentum to back local businesses, support local jobs, and grow the visitor economy."
"We know that there's nowhere else like the Territory, and our events - from sport to culture, and everything in between - really put a spotlight on all that makes us so special."
"Importantly, events are also important economic drivers, elevating the Territory's profile and attracting visitors to see more and spend more - especially in our regions and during off-peak seasons."
"Just last week, the Dolphins first Darwin home game drew a sell-out crowd with nearly 13,000 people - including 2,500 interstate visitors. And in Alice Springs, Paartjima saw its biggest opening weekend on record, with nearly 23,000 visitors. Major events delivering major results outside of our peak tourist season - that's what we want to see more of!"
The announcement follows a new round of Event Funding Program investment - $1.5 million to back 26 events, driving economic growth, attracting visitors off-peak, and celebrating the unique Territory lifestyle.
Minister Boothby highlighted some of the local, sporting, and major events which were supported by our government over the coming year.
"We're revving up our motorsports and major sporting events, with the likes of international test cricket, MXGP, Supercars and the Gazzanats."
"We're putting Territory talent centre stage with new and improved music, culture, and the creative festivals like the NT Irish Music Festival, Blacken in Alice Springs, and the new Mahbili Festival in Kakadu."
"And this year, hospitality and primary producers are in the spotlight as we celebrate Territory food, wine, and farm-to-plate experiences - including the Top End Gin Festival, Alice Springs Beef and BBQ, and the Pitmasters of the NT."
"In our year of growth, certainty, and security we'll continue to back major events and the tourism industry as we position the Territory as the best place to visit and invest."
