The NSW government has launched its Dine & Discover initiative to get communities out and about, supporting dining, arts and tourism businesses and stimulating local economies.
Business NSW is urging eligible businesses and residents in the New England North West region to register for the program and help stimulate millions into the local communities.
Joe Townsend Regional manager from Business NSW believes the program will be hugely beneficial for the region. “Dine & Discover vouchers will definitely help those businesses that have been hardest hit through COVID-19 and really help build confidence back into the communities and get people back out and exploring their local areas”.
Eligible residents will get four $25 vouchers from the state government. Two of which are to be used to ‘dine’ and can be redeemed for food – and not for alcoholic drinks – at restaurants, pubs and cafes. The ‘dine’ vouchers can only be used between Monday and Thursday. They can also spend two additional $25 ‘discover’ vouchers for entertainment and recreation at cultural institutions such as live music and art venues, 7 days a week. The vouchers are not redeemable on public holidays.
The program was initiated to make up for lost ground from the impact of COVID-19 restrictions. With large events such as the Tamworth Country Music Festival being cancelled, missing the usual injection of around $50 million which is set to leave significant negative impacts on local businesses.
The New England North West region is estimated to receive around $13 million dollars from the initiative. It is expected that customers will spend more than the vouchers provide, meaning the allocated $13 million could easily turn into $22 million when residents head out to spend their vouchers.
“One of the real benefits is that businesses know customers will spend more than just the $25 voucher. The Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello told business owners at a recent webinar hosted by Business NSW that on average, residents are spending around $42 when utilising one of their four Dine & Discover vouchers which is really great to see that upsell happening in local businesses” said Mr Townsend.
“It’s super easy to register, you just need your license and Medicare card and it takes around 5 minutes. After you’ve done that you’re ready to head out and start spending your money”.
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