$100 million boost for tourism in regional NSW

The NSW Government is to make a further $100 million available for new tourism projects across regional NSW with round two of the $300 million Regional Growth – Environment and Tourism Fund now open.

NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro advised that of the $100 million, up to $50 million will be available for regionally iconic tourism activation projects that will cost over $5 million.

Deputy Premier Barilaro advised “we want to see your big projects now - projects that will help to enliven and kick-start local economies, attracting tourists while showcasing the impressive environmental assets our regions have to offer.

“When people come to our regional towns to visit tourist attractions, they stay in local accommodation, they buy from local shops and visit local eateries and cafes.

“Tourism is the lifeblood of many NSW regional communities, attracting domestic and international visitors, creating new jobs and making those towns even better places to live,” he said.

Deputy Premier Barilaro said the remaining $50 million would be available for eligible applicants who had strong projects but were unsuccessful at the Expression of Interest stage in round one earlier this year, adding “our communities are full of brilliant ideas and opportunities, unfortunately the first time around we just couldn’t fund them all.

“We want to reassure those who missed out the first time, specifically during the Expression of Interest phase, if you have a great, viable case we’re giving you another chance to get your project funded,” he said.

NSW Environment Minister Gabrielle Upton emphasised that with NSW containing some of Australia’s most desirable natural tourist attractions “this funding is designed to get people to enjoy the wonderful scenery and experience the natural beauty of NSW.

“We want to grow tourism and recreational opportunities so that our amazing environmental attractions are a source of relaxation and enjoyment.”

 $142 million has already been committed to 32 projects from round one right across NSW.

The Regional Growth - Environment and Tourism Fund is part of the NSW Government’s commitment to the delivery of infrastructure projects which improve the productivity and competitiveness of the state under Restart NSW.

Applications for the fund are now open and close on 21st September 2018.

Click here for more information. 

Images: Port Stephens (top) and Jenolan Caves (below).