Applications for AUS$4m of tourism funding for innovative and regional tourism projects are open today, under the Australian Government's Australian Tourism Development Program (ATDP).

Through the ATDP, local tourism regions and businesses are assisted with funding to enhance tourism experiences.

Calling for funding applications today, Tourism Minister Fran Bailey said the Howard Government is committed to helping local tourism regions attract more tourism dollars to help create jobs.

"The Howard Government is providing practical support in developing innovative and regional tourism projects across Australia. This initiative creates local tourism jobs and enhances our international appeal," Fran Bailey, Minister for Small Business and Tourism, said today.

"I encourage tourism regions to apply for funding to help create more tourism jobs. This funding can also assist local communities in drought-affected areas to attract tourists and help boost local economies."

The ATDP offers funding for innovative and regional tourism projects from AUS$50,000 to AUS$500,000. In the first three rounds, more than 970 applications were received. In total, 133 projects have received funding of almost AUS$22 million.

In drought-stricken Dubbo, the Teach Your Kids A Lesson project offers children and adults the opportunity of ‘doing time’ in the old gaol as if in a time capsule. The original gaol entrance has been restored along with the fit-out of a 30-seat theatrette.

“Tourism is a AUS$75 billion industry that creates jobs for more than half a million Australians, including 200,000 jobs in regional Australia. Tourism also earns Australia AUS$19 billion in exports, and importantly, about 48c in every tourism dollar is spent in regional Australia,” Fran Bailey said.”

Applications will close on Friday, 27 April 2007. View more information on the ATDP or call the AusIndustry Hotline on 13 28 46.

Click here to view the latest version of this press release