The City of Greater Geelong is encouraging the community to take advantage of the state government’s $60 million Victorian Dining and Entertainment Program.
From today, Tuesday, March 29, diners at local restaurants, cafes, bars and other food and drink outlets will be able to claim a 25 per cent rebate through the dining program when they spend a minimum of $40 between Monday and Thursday.
Through the entertainment program, visitors to local cinemas, live performances, galleries, museums and more will also be able to claim a 25 per cent rebate if they spend at least $40.
Deputy mayor Trent Sullivan urged the Greater Geelong community to take advantage of the program and support local businesses.
“This is a statewide program and is on a first come, first served basis, so we really want to see everyone get in quickly and make the most of this offer by visiting local hospitality and entertainment venues,” Cr Sullivan said.
“We thank the Victorian government for introducing this initiative and hope to see it make a real impact in supporting Geelong’s economic recovery.”
Arts, hospitality and live entertainment portfolio chair Eddy Kontelj said the state government program added to $19.63 million in community and business support provided by the council since the beginning of the pandemic.
“The program presents a great opportunity to have a fun day or night out at a discounted rate and support Greater Geelong businesses at the same time,” Cr Kontelj said.
“There are so many outstanding venues in our region and they still need our help, so we’d love to see a real rush from the local community and visitors to take up this offer.”
The rebate program was part of a $200 million package to support the tourism and hospitality industries, announced last month.
Half of the package will fund a voucher scheme to provide rebates to Victorians who support hospitality and tourism businesses.
The dining voucher scheme was originally limited to Melbourne last year and has been extended with a further $10 million, as well as expanded with $30 million for the rest of the state, including Geelong.
The new entertainment voucher scheme will provide $30 million in rebates for tickets to the theatre, live music, cinemas, museums, galleries, conferences, exhibitions and other events across Victoria.
The remaining $30 million funded another round of the Victorian Travel Voucher Scheme to encourage more people to holiday at home and spend on accommodation, attractions and tours.
“We’re encouraging Victorians to experience the best the state has to offer by going to see a show, having lunch with friends or visiting somewhere new,” Industry Support and Recovery Minister Martin Pakula said.
“Business and consumer confidence is critical for our continued economic recovery and that’s why we’re investing in these programs to deliver a boost where it is needed most.”
