Peter Gutwein,Premier and Minister for Tourism
Supporting our world-class tourism industry to continue operating during this challenging period and to rebuild even stronger from COVID-19 is a priority for the Tasmanian Government.
That's why we have already released our $7.5 million tourism voucher scheme to stimulate intrastate travel while access to our bigger interstate markets like Victoria and New South Wales is not available.
In addition, our $20 million Business Support package is also now open for applications, which will provide much-needed relief to Tasmanian businesses struggling with the ongoing effects of border closures. This support is specifically targeted at tourism, hospitality, arts and events, seafood and transport (hire car, coach tours) sectors, as well as those that have been impacted directly by reduced interstate visitation.
Next week we will release the guidelines and open applications for our $50 million loan scheme to assist the tourism industry in line with the commitment outlined in our First 100 Day Plan.
We have increased the interest-free loan amount to up to $2 million for three years, up from our initial election commitment of a capped $1 million. This will provide industry with resourcing to genuinely improve and enhance their product offering during this time and by doing so, increase Tasmania's destination appeal.
Our tourism sector is critical to our visitor economy and Tasmania has a strong brand and wide market appeal, that will remain strong.
This scheme will assist Tassie tourism operators to rebuild and regain visitors and customers as travel returns to normal, providing an opportunity to build resilience and innovate.
Initiatives that are supported under this scheme will contribute to achieving the identified priorities of our T21 Visitor Economy Action Plan 2020-22.
This includes, for example, championing entrepreneurialism and innovation in new products and experiences that reinforce and enhance our Tassie brand and competitive strengths.
Tasmania's tourism industry is world-class and recognised as a must-visit global destination, and this interest-free loan scheme is one of the ways we are supporting and strengthening the industry to secure Tasmania's future.
Information on the Loan Scheme will be available by contacting Business Tasmania on 1800 440 026 or the Business Tasmania website www.business.tas.gov.au
