Restaurant vouchers rewards to be released in December by Hobart City Council

From next month, reward-style vouchers via a mobile app for use at participating food and beverage outlets will be part of a trial program to support local businesses. MORE DETAILS >>

• Thousands of Tasmanians yet to redeem vouchers
• Millions of dollars of vouchers still unclaimed

People visiting Hobart restaurants and cafes this summer can expect discount vouchers as part of a program that hopes to boost the sector.

From next month, the City of Hobart plans to release spending vouchers via a mobile app for use at participating food and beverage outlets as part of a trial program to support local businesses.

The program – which council says is likely to be called ‘Passport to Hobart’ – will include a $10 digital welcome voucher upon downloading the app and another $20 voucher awarded after five transactions of $20 or more at participating businesses.

Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds. Picture Chris Kidd

After sharing the news of the proposed program, one Mercury reader joked it sounded like “Pokemon Go” for those keen on a drink, with many excited about the idea.

Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said the objective of the program was to encourage residents to support local businesses and to “rediscover” the own city in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We know our local business community has taken a hit from the pandemic,” she said.

“We can all contribute to the city’s economic recovery by choosing to spend locally.

“Hobart has so many fantastic restaurants and cafes and summer is a great time to get out and enjoy them.

“Under this program, every time you spend $20 at one of the listed venues, you’ll receive a stamp in your digital passport.

Hobart City Council Alderman Damon Thomas. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

Economic Development and Communications Committee Chair Damon Thomas said the City has engaged relevant industry who have been responsive to the idea.

“The feedback has been positive, with the acknowledgment that the program would support businesses during these uncertain times,” he said.

While details remain minimal at this stage, Alderman Thomas said information about how to get involved would be available soon.

“Businesses operating within the City of Hobart area will be invited to register as participants,” he said.

“But first, there are a few more details to finalise and that will happen in the next few weeks.

“The aim is to have the app available for download and vouchers ready to be used by mid-December. The program will then run until about the end of January.

“We hope it will benefit both businesses and their customers by encouraging and supporting people to enjoy Hobart’s many offerings during the peak summer holiday period.”

Maximum numbers of vouchers and participating businesses will apply, with further eligibility details to be provided shortly.

Follow @jackevansreport