The Tasmanian Liberal Government is a strong supporter of regional tourism, which is why we are partnering with the RACT to deliver the West Coast Experience Loan Fund.
The loan fund, worth $500,000, is designed to support the West Coast in developing new tourism products and experiences. This will create new job opportunities on the West Coast and diversify the regional economy.
Tasmania’s isolated West Coast has much potential for tourism growth with rugged landscapes, boundless forests and a rich historical narrative.
In the year to March 2016 the Cradle Coast region experienced a five per cent increase in tourism growth, which we want to build on.
The loan fund is now open and I encourage local West Coast businesses to apply by completing an expression of interest, which can be downloaded from the RACT website at www.ract.com.au
Loans of up to $100,000 will be available and are to be matched dollar for dollar by the applicant. The loans are to be repaid over five years with an interest free period for the first two years.
With Tasmania’s award winning tourism sector growing year-on-year, the Liberal Government is seizing the opportunity to facilitate continued growth in the sector, particularly in regional areas.