The NSW Government is launching a Western Sydney Digital Skills Accelerator for Tourism program to help visitor economy businesses transform their online marketing.
Destination NSW has partnered with digital consultancy Tourism Tribe to offer the free program to accommodation providers, tour companies and visitor attractions.
Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres said a Western Sydney Digital Skills Accelerator for Tourism program will be a significant asset for local businesses.
"The Western Sydney Digital Skills Accelerator for Tourism program will assist businesses across Western Sydney to develop, promote and sell great visitor experiences," Mr Ayres said.
"Western Sydney has a vibrant tourism offering and this important program will better equip local tourism operators and businesses to level up their digital presence and further establish Western Sydney as a premier tourism destination."
Minister for Tourism Ben Franklin said the Western Sydney-focused initiative followed Destination NSW delivering a successful state-wide Digital Accelerator for Tourism program earlier this year.
"The Western Sydney Digital Skills Accelerator for Tourism program is part of the NSW First Program, delivered by Destination NSW to assist businesses to promote their experiences and attractions," Mr Franklin said.
"This program will support the growth in digital capability and online visibility of the diverse visitor experience offering across Central River City and Western Parkland City."
"Digital innovation is crucial to success in the contemporary tourism landscape. Helping businesses in the visitor economy to improve their digital competency is a key pillar of the NSW Government's Visitor Economy Strategy 2030."
The program complements NSW First Program content, which includes 'how to' guides, resources and on-demand webinars for tourism businesses.
In addition to receiving a customised digital health check report and Australian Tourism Data Warehouse review, successful applicants will also have two, one-hour consultation sessions with a digital advisor and access to a course library to help improve their knowledge and digital skills.
Nepean Belle Paddlewheeler owner Carol Bennett took part in the first Destination NSW Digital Skills Accelerator for Tourism program held earlier this year and said it played a vital role in raising the online profile of her business.
"As a small business, we manage our own digital presence, including our website, social media and Google," Ms Bennett said.
"The Digital Skills Accelerator Program's online health check highlighted a lot of improvements to boost our website's organic search reach as well as useful tips to enhance our Google listing.
"Since implementing the recommendations we have seen an increase in our Google ranking, which in turn has increased our organic search results. This program has been invaluable for us."
The Western Sydney Digital Skills Accelerator for Tourism program will be open to 200 visitor attraction, accommodation and tour providers located in Sydney's Central River City and Western Parkland City.
Find out your eligibility and apply for the Digital Skills Accelerator for Tourism program here.
