Travel agents and tourism businesses in Western Australia are now able to apply for financial support as part of a new $16.8 million package co-funded by the state and federal governments.
The WA Tourism and Travel Agent Support Fund offers one-off payments between $2,000 and $10,000 to eligible WA businesses impacted by COVID-19 restrictions in the eastern states.
Applications are open to travel agents, tour operators, travel and tour transport services, accommodation providers, and businesses that provide tourism attractions and experiences.
In order for agents to be eligible, they must have been offering domestic or New Zealand products to travellers.
Businesses that are registered with Tourism Western Australia as a previous grant recipient or as part of the agency’s marketing campaigns in 2020 or 2021 are also eligible, as are those that a member of, or accredited through, a relevant tourism organisation as of 22 August.
Eligible businesses must also have an active and valid ABN and be located in WA.
Applicants need to show they have had a minimum 30 per cent decrease in annual turnover as a result of the lockdowns and restrictions in the eastern states since June.
WA Premier Mark McGowan said: “Sustained community spread of COVID-19 in the eastern states, in particular New South Wales, is having impacts on some WA tourism businesses.
“This assistance program will provide some short-term financial support for those businesses who through no fault of their own are being impacted by eastern states’ lockdowns and restrictions.
“Western Australia’s work to stamp out any community spread immediately and decisively has enabled our tourism and hospitality operators to enjoy incredibly strong business over the past 18 months.
“Western Australians have been able to enjoy holidays and visit bars, restaurants and pubs, largely restriction-free. This is what can be achieved by crushing and killing the virus at the outset.”
For more information about the WA Tourism and Travel Agent Support Fund, or to apply, go here. Applications close on 30 September 2021.
Featured image source: iStock/oonal
