Alice Springs Grant Initiative Delivers $8.5 Million to Strengthen Red Centre Tourism Sector
The Australian Government has announced a comprehensive $8.5 million tourism support package for the Red Centre, aimed at revitalizing the region’s economy following recent declines in visitor numbers.
The centrepiece of this initiative is the $1 million Alice Springs Revival and Resilience Grant Program, which opened for applications today. The program targets small tourism operators within the Alice Springs and MacDonnell tourism region who are experiencing financial difficulties. Eligible businesses must employ fewer than 19 staff members and maintain an annual turnover below $5 million.
These grants will provide financial assistance to cover operational expenses, enabling tourism businesses to remain viable while benefiting from complementary government initiatives designed to increase visitation to the Red Centre. Two additional grant programs will be launched in the near future to support the development of new tourism experiences and enhanced destination marketing to domestic and international audiences.
Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell emphasized the government’s commitment to the region: “These grants demonstrate our dedication to maintaining the Red Centre as a cornerstone of Australia’s tourism industry. The Alice Springs Revival and Resilience Grant Program will help businesses maintain operations, preserve local employment, and attract increased visitation to the region. We are committed to supporting local enterprises in an area that features some of the world’s most remarkable natural attractions.”
Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy highlighted tourism’s economic importance: “Tourism, particularly First Nations tourism, represents a vital economic component for Central Australia, with the Red Centre attracting visitors from throughout Australia and internationally. These grants support local businesses and employment while strengthening communities. This tourism support package represents another significant investment by the Australian Government in Central Australia and its residents.”
Marion Scrymgour MP, Special Envoy for Remote Communities and Member for Lingiari, stated: “Central Australia possesses exceptional natural beauty with the potential to establish itself as a premier global tourism destination. Our government is committed to enhancing the resilience of tourism operators throughout Alice Springs and the MacDonnell region. We are focused on delivering meaningful support to local businesses and tourism operators. A revitalized tourism sector will generate employment opportunities while showcasing the unique attributes of the Red Centre.”
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