NT tourism sector’s $18 million windfall from voucher scheme

THE Territory Government says more than $18 million has been generated into the Territory’s tourism sector as a result of its tourism voucher scheme which was launched six months ago

Minister for Tourism Natasha Fyles... the NT Government says more than $18 million has been generated into the Territory’s tourism sector as a result of its tourism voucher scheme. Picture: Katrina Bridgeford

• Popular Territory Tourism Vouchers snapped up within five minutes
• Over 30,000 waitlisted after tourism vouchers snapped up in 3.44 minutes

THE Territory Government says more than $18 million has been generated into the Territory’s tourism sector as a result of its tourism voucher scheme which was launched six months ago.

The popular vouchers encourage Territorians to explore their own backyards and support the local tourism industry hit hard by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

After a successful first round two additional instalments have followed.

All up almost 45,000 vouchers have been used with the majority being used for stay at home holidays.

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Almost 50 per cent of round one and 60 per cent of round two vouchers were spent on accommodation.

Fishing charters, boat hire and tour services were also popular.

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Natasha Fyles said the vouchers have been a lifeline for our tourism sector.

“They’ve kept business afloat and Territorians in jobs,” Ms Fyles said.

“We know how hard the industry has suffered as a result of international and interstate border closures which is why we introduced the popular scheme.

“Territorians have been incredible in exploring their backyards, and backing local.

“The pandemic is still very real, and with the return of international travel off the cards for the foreseeable future, we know we must keep doing everything we can to support our tourism operators.”

The third round of the Territory Tourism Voucher scheme is currently being rolled out, and so far almost 1,900 vouchers have been redeemed, generating an additional $896,000 into the economy.

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Territorians who receive a voucher have 14 days to redeem it.

Unredeemed vouchers will be returned to the pool and be reissued to Territorians on the waitlist, with all travel and experiences to be completed by 30 April 2021.