Territory businesses looking to launch or grow a tourism project will benefit from a new funding program, as the Finocchiaro CLP Government launches its $3 million NT Experience Fund.
The fund forms part of the government's ambitious Visitor Economy Strategy - launched in Alice Springs last week - and aims to increase the number of bookable tourism products available to local, interstate, and international visitors.
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Marie-Clare Boothby said the NT Experience Fund is about backing industry, boosting visitation, and investing in new tourism experiences.
"The NT Experience Fund offers local businesses and operators the chance to start or enhance their tourism offerings - elevating the Territory's profile while supporting local businesses and local jobs."
"There is nowhere like the Northern Territory with our one-of-a-kind experiences, authentic culture, natural landscapes, and warm hospitality. We know and the world is taking notice," Minister Boothby continued.
"Our task now is to convert that interest into more visitors, spending more, in more parts of the Territory beyond the peak tourist season - that's what the Visitor Economy Strategy is all about."
The Visitor Economy Strategy 2032 sets out a practical, industry-led objective of growing the Territory's visitor economy to $3 billion and 1.7 million visits by 2032. The strategy will support 6000 new jobs, 4400 airline seats, and over 200,000 room nights in Territory accommodation providers - supporting local businesses right across the Territory.
The NT Experience Fund includes three funding streams:
New Experience Grants of up to $150,000, with a 35% co-contributionMulti-Year New Experience Grants of up to $300,000 over two years, with a 35% co-contributionMilitary Heritage Tourism Enhancements of up to $40,000, with no co-contribution
"In our year of growth, certainty and security, we're backing local businesses, supporting local jobs, and investing in local industry to make the Territory a destination of choice," Minister Boothby said.
