A new State Government initative is already proving to be a useful resource in Broken Hill.
An accommodation business in town is happy with the instant effect the $50 Stay NSW Vouchers have had since it was launched on Monday.
Red Earth Motel Manager, Lindsay Dally, welcomes the program and said guests have cashed in their vouchers, a trend she expects to continue.
“I think it’s a great initiative,” she said. “Anything that encourages people to go out and stay locally is great.
“We’ve had a few people redeem vouchers. I expect we will get more people use them.”
Applications for the vouchers will be made available by Local Government Area in a staggered approach.
Every community are expected to have access to them by early March.
People can use the one-off voucher for accommodation only at participating providers.
Participating businesses will be able to redeem vouchers seven days a week, including public holidays.
Customers will be able to search for places to stay on a user-friendly business finder.
Mrs Dally hopes it can help boost bookings throughout the year as people become more comfortable with planning holidays.
“Every little bit helps,” she said. “We are seeing it picking up slowly. People might not be too confident with travelling, but we are getting there.”
More than 1200 Stay NSW businesses have signed up for the program state-wide with the opportunity for registration still available.
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello said the voucher initiative is a commitment to bolster the accommodation industry while getting people excited to travel.
“This is a win-win for NSW – the vouchers will give hard-hit businesses much-needed stimulus while also encouraging residents to explore our great state,” he said.
“The Stay NSW program has been expanded and fast-tracked so that people can enjoy a staycation sooner.
“Whether it’s a quiet country inn, the family-run caravan park or a hotel in the Sydney CBD, every budget needs a boost this year.”
Mrs Dally said the Motel will look to register for other state-run programs to attract more business.
“We get emails when there is a new initiative which has been very helpful,” she said.
Stay NSW Vouchers will be valid until October 9. For more information, visit www.service.nsw.gov.au/stay-nsw.
