$100m more for tourism in regional NSW

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro today announced $100 million will be available for new tourism projects across regional NSW with round two of the $300 million Regional Growth – Environment and Tourism Fund now open.

Mr Barilaro said of the $100 million, up to $50 million will be available for regionally iconic tourism activation projects that will cost over $5 million.

“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,” Mr Barilaro said.

“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.

Mr 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.

“Our communities are full of brilliant ideas and opportunities, unfortunately the first time around we just couldn’t fund them all,” Mr Barilaro said.

“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.

Environment Minister Gabrielle Upton said the state contains 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,” Ms Upton said.

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

Minister for Tourism and Major Events Adam Marshall said $142 million has already been committed to 32 projects from round one right across the state.

“Tourism Projects are currently underway from round one and are set to be huge drawcards for visitors to our rural and regional areas, filling our hotels, cafes, restaurants and boutiques, putting more tourist dollars in the pockets of local businesspeople,” Mr Marshall said.

“We’re absolutely committed to supporting the growth of our State’s tourism sector so that every corner of NSW reaps the benefits,” he said.

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 will be open from 13 August to 21 September 2018.