A revival of the Great State Voucher scheme could be a shot in the arm for South Australian small businesses and tourism operators pushed to the brink by the toxic algal bloom.
The vouchers were successfully used to activate the State’s economy during the COVID pandemic and again during the Riverland flood recovery and the State Opposition is calling for the Government to once again incentivise travel to areas impacted by this natural disaster.
Opposition Leader, Vincent Tarzia, said tourism has been severely impacted by the toxic bloom and the scheme would be a boost to pubs, cafés, caravan parks, retailers and charter operators all along the coast.
“These hardworking South Australians are paying the price for an environmental crisis that’s completely out of their control,” Mr Tarzia said.
“The Government must step up and support these operators now, that’s why we’re calling on them to introduce a new version of the successful Great State Voucher scheme.
“We've heard from a number of communities that trade is down by at least 30% this year, as people stop visiting our beaches worried about the health and environmental impacts of the bloom.
“Between the impact on commercial fishing and tourism, many towns have suffered a double hit to their local economy.”
Shadow Minister for Tourism, Penny Pratt added that the original Great State Voucher scheme provided vital stimulus during COVID-19 and could now do the same for communities hit hard by the algal bloom.
“We have data from the pandemic that shows the vouchers created an average expenditure of $602 for a regional stay, and $462 when booking a tour or experience with a $100 voucher,” Ms Pratt said.
“This is a practical and proven initiative that would go a long way in supporting those who rely on the tourist dollar.
“This is now the second school holiday period these small businesses have endured with the algal bloom and it’s just not acceptable to let them endure a third. Even the Deputy Premier has suggested beaches may be closed over Summer.
“The Government needs to take a holistic approach to recovery and extended support like the Great State Vouchers must be part of the solution.”
