One in every 11 jobs in regional Victoria exists because of tourism, and the Allan Labor Government is
bringing even more regional tourism projects to life.

Member for Ripon Martha Haylett today welcomed the launch of the latest round of the Enabling
Tourism Fund, which is all about getting the most exciting regional tourism ideas off the ground and
ready for investment.

The new round of funding announced today will make available up to $8 million to create a pipeline of
more tourism infrastructure and more jobs.

Grants between $20,000 and $500,000 are open to tourism businesses, not-for-profit and Traditional
Owner organisations, and more.

The grants will be delivered in two streams: the first providing support to test the concept of a large new
infrastructure project like a feasibility study or masterplan.

The second stream funds detailed design packages, funding strategies or community engagement plans.
Both are vital to attracting greater investment and getting projects off paper.

The fund is guided by five priorities of experiences that Victoria does best – First Peoples-led experiences,
wellness, arts and culture, food and drink, and nature.

A new guide for tourism operators will also help them deliver projects that are ready for investment,
delivering a great return and an even better experience for visitors.

The fund is one of the many things the Allan Labor Government is doing for regional tourism, with
Bendigo’s new planetarium now twice its size thanks to the Regional Tourism Investment Fund.

Applications for the Enabling Tourism Fund are open until Friday, 28 March 2024. For more information
on the grants and the new guide, visit tourism.vic.gov.au.

Quote attributable to Member for Ripon Martha Haylett

“We want more people to uncover how amazing our rural and regional communities are, and
strengthening our tourism offering is the perfect way to put the spotlight on them.”

“There are so many incredible places across our region that are begging to be unearthed – and I’d
encourage any organisations and groups who have big ideas to apply for this fund.”