The Coast is Calling travel vouchers and the Dining Cashback program injected almost $47 million into the visitor economies of coastal destinations impacted by the algal bloom.
The latest data shows the Coast is Calling Travel Voucher program generated $22.5 million in estimated expenditure during the critical summer and April school holiday periods − $6.4 million in the first round and $16.1 million in the extended second round.
More than 18,600 bookings were made across more than 700 coastal accommodation and experiences such as kayaking adventures, seafood tours and sailing, as well as family-friendly holiday parks, eco-stays, glamping, and hotels.
The State Government surveyed those who redeemed a voucher in the second round, which found that regional tourism received the majority of support, with over 82% of vouchers being redeemed outside of metropolitan Adelaide.
Analysis of the expenditure impact data showed that for every dollar of government investment across the two rounds, more than $4.65 was returned to the regions.
Consumers spread their spending widely; for every dollar spent with the main voucher operator, another dollar was spent during the trip with other businesses - with almost all accommodation voucher holders purchasing at least one meal.
Of Round 2 voucher users, the survey showed almost 80% would not have taken the trip had they not won a voucher.
Highlighting the long-term benefit of the voucher program, 84% of voucher users reported they were likely to do something similar in the future without a voucher and over 90% would recommend family or friends do a similar experience.
The voucher program was part of the Federal and State Government's Algal Bloom Summer Plan, which also included the Dining Cashback program.
Further boosting visitation and economic activity along the State's coast, the Dining Cashback program generated $24.4 million, with 521 coastal hospitality and South Australian seafood retailers participating in the program.
Supporting businesses impacted by the algal bloom, South Australians claimed $9.4 million in cashback value from 204,000 vouchers redeemed over five months of the scheme.
A survey of participating businesses found that 99% of businesses indicated that it was easy to participate. A survey of those who claimed cashback found almost 90% would continue to support coastal businesses and seafood retailers.
Tourism Minister Emily Bourke said Supporting those doing it tough is inherently South Australian, and outcomes of the Coast is Calling Travel Vouchers and Dining Cashback programs prove it.
"Almost $47 million needed dollars have been created for local coastal businesses and SA seafood retailers who did not know what the peak summer season was going to look like," she said.
"Travel voucher holders made the most of their time on our coastline, with a majority spending in local hospitality, shops, bakeries and activities to further benefit the community. The benefits do not end now, with an overwhelming majority likely to do something similar in the future - and tell their family and friends to do the same."
Joel Hirsch, General Manager of The Big Duck Boat Tours and Spirit of the Coorong said the Coast is Calling vouchers provided an incredible boost for regional tourism operators and helped motivate consumers to reconnect with South Australia's spectacular coastline and world-class marine experiences.
"The voucher program played an important role in restoring confidence and encouraging people back to the Fleurieu Peninsula. It would be quite concerning to think what visitor numbers may have looked like without the South Australian Government stepping in with initiatives such as the Coast is Calling campaign," he said.
"The program allowed operators like us to keep showcasing the very best of South Australia - dramatic coastal scenery, rugged Southern Ocean landscapes, and unforgettable wildlife encounters."
"Through The Big Duck Boat Tours alone, we saw more than 1,200 vouchers redeemed, delivering a substantial uplift in visitation and helping return bookings to more normal operating levels during what had become a very challenging period for regional tourism."
