Tourism support needs to be inclusive

A MULTI million-dollar State Government initiative aimed at helping businesses bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic could have major benefits for local traders, but only if it’s done right according to one industry expert.

A $200 million dollar stimulus package was announced by the Government last week, which for the first time includes $60 million in rebates for regional Victorian dining and entertainment experiences, as well as another $30 million round of travel vouchers.

Under the revised scheme, which is yet to be launched, Victorians could claim a 25 per cent rebate on dining and entertainment outings across the state and a $200 travel voucher when they spend at least $400 on accommodation, attractions and tours.

Industry support and recovery minister Martin Pakula said while parts of regional Victoria were humming, they needed more support to be brought back to life.

“We think this is the best way to target support, we think what business needs is customers back, money in the hands of customers so that they can come, spend and enjoy,” he said.

Bendigo Tourism board chair Kath Bolitho said the initiatives could have great impacts on the region.

“I’ve spoken to a couple of operators from the first rounds and they said the travel vouchers were essentially what saved them,” she said.

“Those that were eligible for them felt the impact in a really positive way.”

But Ms Bolitho questioned how the Government planned to launch the newly expanded scheme and who, or what, it would apply to.

“If you’re a small event, can you actually register or do something where people can use it, as opposed to it maybe only being applicable to major events?” she said.

“Restaurants, yes, they’ve finally had their restrictions removed but events have still been, up until the end of January, cancelling.

“It would be really great if people who are participating can travel, use their voucher on their accommodations, go out for dinner, go to an event and really have a proper time out rather than having to pick different pieces.”

Ms Bolitho said the best way to roll out the initiative would be “anything that avoids going through a commission agency” who take a cut from local operators’ profits.

“I know the moteliers are very passionate about people booking direct and using those vouchers directly which makes sense because if you book through Booking.com or Trivago, they’re losing 30 per cent,” she said.

“Anything where people can book directly with the venues or the events would be great, or if it’s through the local tourism agency because at least you know their commissions go back into creating more tourism for the city as well, so the money is staying here.

“Hopefully the process is really inclusive but also really easy for the little guy through to big operators to take advantage of.”