The Albanese Government is delivering on its election commitment to strengthen and enhance tourism experiences in Australia's Red Centre, with a $7.5 million boost for the region.
From exploring Uluru and Kata Tjuta's majestic domes, to hiking Kings Canyon's circuit trail, the Red Centre is one of Australia's most iconic tourism regions, and home to experiences that highlight Australia's unique natural environment and First Nations communities.
The funding is part of the $8.5 million Albanese Government investment that kicked off in November last year, alongside a $1 million Alice Springs Revival and Resilience grant program.
30 small businesses in the Alice Springs and MacDonnell tourism region received more than $33,000 each under that program.
The Red Centre Marketing Boost will provide up to $5 million over two years to Tourism Central Australia (TCA) to attract more domestic and international tourists and increase visitor spending through targeted marketing campaigns.
The Red Centre Tourism Development Fund will provide $2.5 million in grants to develop new and innovative tourism experiences and products, or to upgrade existing offerings.
These grants will deliver projects that include a bookable experience or product, including new tours, events, or new accommodation options and upgrades for tourists visiting the region.
The new grant programs open for applications today, details can be found at Red Centre Tourism Development Fund.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell
"We are delivering on our election commitment to invest in tourism in the Red Centre, support local jobs, and the local economy.
"These new grants will not only help local tourism operators enhance and develop new tourism experiences, they will also help tell the region's remarkable story to the world.
"Tourism is the economic backbone of so many Australian regional communities and is vital to the Red Centre."
"Every dollar spent by tourists in Australia is a boost for our economy, supporting local businesses and creating new jobs."
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Indigenous Australians, Malarndirri McCarthy
"Central Australia is one of the most special places in the country and this investment is about supporting the people who live and work there to share their incredible stories with the world.
"Many of the tourism businesses in Central Australia are small, locally-run and deeply connected to Country. Backing these businesses means supporting local jobs and stronger communities.
"This funding gives operators the confidence to expand their offerings, deliver new experiences and attract more visitors. It's about building a stronger future that's shaped by people who know the Red Centre best."
Quotes attributable to Marion Scrymgour MP, Member for Lingiari
"Tourism operators across Central Australia have faced many challenges over the past few years. I am pleased that our Albanese Labor Government is supporting local businesses with this much needed funding to help them grow and innovate their tourism offerings.
Central Australia is home to some of the most breath-taking landscapes and cultural experiences, and our government is proud to support tourism operators to bring these stories to the world.
