Fifty-one Coral Coast tourism businesses will share in $1.75 million of funding from the McGowan Government’s $8.7 million Tourism Business Survival Grants program.
The initiative is providing funding to 266 tourism businesses around the State as part of the second round of the McGowan Government’s $14.4 million Tourism Recovery Program.
While much of the State is enjoying a tourism boom as Western Australians holiday at home, some regions and tourism sectors are continuing to be challenged by the impacts of COVID-19.
The program is providing grants of $15,000-$100,000 to help tourism operators sustain and grow their businesses in the current environment – to cover fixed costs and overheads, purchase business materials and services, and shift focus to the domestic market.
A wide range of Coral Coast operators have received assistance from the fund – including marine adventures and dives, flights and helicopter tours, fishing charters, accommodation providers and restaurants.
Australia’s Coral Coast region stretches from Cervantes to Geraldton and Ningaloo, and includes some of Western Australia’s most loved icons such as the Pinnacles, Kalbarri National Park, Shark Bay and Monkey Mia.
The $14.4 million Tourism Recovery Program – including the Tourism Business Survival Grants and Tourism Recovery Fund – has now delivered direct financial support to 974 WA tourism businesses, with 70 per cent of all applicants receiving funding.
Leftover funding from the Tourism Recovery Fund has been reallocated to the Tourism Business Survival Grants program – more than doubling the original $4 million allocation.
A full list of successful Tourism Business Survival Grants program recipients can be found at https://www.tourism.wa.gov.au from 8am today (October 5).
As stated by Tourism Minister Paul Papalia:
“The Coral Coast boasts some of the most unique bucket list experiences in Western Australia and the local businesses who deliver these options are a critical part of our tourism landscape.
“This funding support will help impacted businesses cover costs, purchase supplies and services, and shift their focus to the domestic market.
“While we know many WA businesses are enjoying the benefits of the intrastate tourism boom, some regions and industry sectors are continuing to feel the impacts of COVID-19.
“Many businesses are still dealing with the loss of international travellers and are working hard to adapt their marketing and operations to appeal to Western Australians.
“This funding will help businesses shift focus to local markets and sustain their businesses during COVID-19.”
