Flood support | Major event announcements | Cruise milestones & more...
The increasing flood impact dominates the news cycle this week - my thoughts are with those operators impacted by the rising water, and the broader river region communities who are dealing with this significant event.
The South Australian Tourism Commission is working closely with the lead agencies on the emergency preparation priorities, and on what support is required for tourism operators.
As announced last month, the State Government has already committed $4.1 million for a tourism recovery package. This includes a significant marketing and voucher campaign, which my team has already started working on. Specifically, this includes:
- $3 million for three rounds of time-limited vouchers for accommodation and tourism experiences in river regions; and
- $1.1 million for a river marketing campaign.
These dedicated marketing efforts will help drive the recovery of the region by stimulating visitation and bookings in the entire river region. We anticipate these campaigns to run in 2023 and that the river marketing campaign will become the dominant focus of the SATC’s intrastate marketing efforts in the first half of 2023. Importantly, as soon as the regions are ready, we will be ready.
There are several flood support programs currently available, including Early Business Closure Grants. These are all listed on sa.gov.au. I urge you to review what could be applicable to you and your business. There is also a Relief Information Line if you would like to talk to someone - 1800 302 787.
There was also good news from the Federal Government with more support now available for South Australian communities impacted by flooding through the Disaster Relief Allowance (DRA). It is an income support that assists employees and sole traders who experience a loss of income as a direct result of a major disaster. People can receive this taxable payment for a maximum of 13 weeks. Nine LGA’s have been included - Alexandrina, Berri Barmera, Coorong, Karoonda East Murray, Loxton Waikerie, Mid Murray, Murray Bridge, Renmark Paringa and the Unincorporated Area of South Australia. For more information, please visit the Services Australia website.
In the continued effort to support the Murray River regions affected by flooding, Brand SA has today launched a new campaign to encouraging consumers to 'spend your support.' Using a dedicated online marketplace, shoppers are connected with more than 50 local traders to allow them to buy direct from the region to boost sales in flood-affected communities.
The situation is changing daily, with the expected peak to arrive at Renmark around 14 December. We will continue to provide updates as they become available.
Thank you
Stephanie Rozokos
Chief Executive