NSW $30M fund to activate Tourism in Regional NSW

Big ticket tourism attractions that will put regional towns on the map and improve accessibility for people with disability are set to receive a significant funding boost, thanks to the NSW Government.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro, Treasurer Dominic Perrottet and Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh were in Coffs Harbour last week to announce the new $30 million Regional Tourism Activation Fund which will deliver new or upgraded tourism infrastructure as well as improve accessibility and inclusion for people with disability.

“This brand new fund will support the construction of new iconic visitor experiences, such as cliff-top walks or unique event spaces, boosting the profile of regional NSW towns and giving people even more reasons to take a holiday in the regions,” Mr Barilaro said.

“We are also supporting accessibility and inclusion improvements by funding upgrades such as a lift in a multi-level venue and clear access pathways to give more people with disability the opportunity to experience what our regions have to offer.”

Mr Perrottet said supporting tourism also supports local jobs and expands local economies, creating beneficial flow-on effects for traders and creates new opportunities for investment.

“With few overseas travel options available, the NSW Government is strengthening tourism in regional NSW. This funding will ensure the industry prospers and continues to play an important role in our economy,” Mr Perrottet said.

Mr Singh welcomed the funding announcement which happened today at the Coffs Harbour Forest Sky Pier, saying the funding will bring even more visitors to regional NSW each year.

“Coffs Harbour recently held the Sharks VS Titans NRL match and next week the Super W Rugby tournament starts, putting the North Coast on the map, not only as a place to host word class events, but as a place to come enjoy your holidays,” Mr Singh said.

Under Stream One, grants between $200,000 and $5 million are available for projects delivering unique and high impact visitor experiences, while Stream Two provides grants between $50,000 to $500,000 for projects that will improve the accessibility and inclusion of tourism experiences for people with disability.

The $30 million Regional Tourism Activation Fund is part of the $2 billion Regional Growth Fund. Applications open 16 June and close on 11 August 2021. For more information, go to: www.nsw.gov.au/RTAFund.