The McGowan Government has opened a new round of the Local Capability Fund (LCF) to support local businesses in the Gascoyne and Pilbara, in preparation for the Total Solar Eclipse (TSE) event on 20 April 2023.
The purpose of the LCF is to assist small and medium-sized enterprises with funding for planning, internal infrastructure, plant and equipment, and training.
Specific to the TSE round, grants of 75 per cent of costs up to a maximum of $25,000, are available to eligible businesses and can be utilised to procure planning and business advice, improve internal business systems, train employees, acquire new equipment or machinery, and support specific operational costs.
Exmouth has been identified as one of the best land-based places in the world to view the eclipse, with the Exmouth Peninsula set to experience total darkness.
While the actual eclipse is relatively short, Tourism WA expects visitors to stay in the region for about five days.
The TSE round of the LCF opens on 30 August 2022 and closes at 3pm on 4 October 2022.
Officers from the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation will be in Carnarvon, Coral Bay and Exmouth from 30 August to 2 September, and in Onslow on 8 September to promote the program to local businesses.
To learn more about the LCF or to submit an application, visit https://www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-jobs-tourism-science-and-innovation/local-capability-fund
As stated by State Development, Jobs and Trade Minister Roger Cook:
“Exmouth and the broader North West Cape will be one of the only land-based places in the world where people will be able to view the Total Solar Eclipse in full.
“With thousands of tourists expected to flock to the region, it’s important that the State Government supports local businesses who will see an influx of customers.
“This Total Solar Eclipse round of the Local Capability Fund is not just a boost for business, but will also ensure tourists visiting the region have a truly memorable experience.”
