Tourism businesses on the Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island could be big winners from $20 million in new state government grants.

Grants from $20,000 to $500,000 are available for new and improved regional accommodation, and quality tourism product and experiences that attract more visitors and a higher return.

Premier Steven Marshall yesterday announced the multi-million-dollar Tourism Industry Development Fund, run over two years, to assist regional tourism businesses to recover quicker and stronger and get more South Australians into work. 

It is part of a suite of support packages aimed at the tourism sector, which has been significantly impacted by bushfires and COVID-19.

“There’s no doubt the tourism industry is one of the hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, but it’s also one of the most innovative and creative,” the premier says.

“We want to ensure that regional tourism businesses are supported to improve and diversify their offering so they can remain sustainable, increase visitor demand, and have visitors linger for longer.

“Regional tourism is playing a major role in rebuilding our state’s visitor economy and creating local jobs. We already know 43 cents in every tourism dollar is spent in our regions and early indications show this fund will create around 1,400 ongoing direct tourism jobs.

Applications to the Tourism Industry Development Fund are limited to private sector businesses. Projects must start within three months of a successful application.

Grants range from $20,000 to $500,000 with a maximum of 30 per cent state government funding committed to the total project value. 

Examples could include new accommodation or refurbishments to existing properties, the development or enhancement of tourism experiences, including innovative transport options, or infrastructure to enhance visitor engagement including a new cellar door experience or an interactive display.

The funding program opened at 9am on 14 September and runs until 31 March 2022 or until all funds have been allocated.

A panel including representatives from the South Australian Tourism Commission and the South Australian Financing Authority will assess applications.

More details: tourism.sa.gov.au