The Northern Territory Government is providing a range of small grants to assist NT based tourism, retail and hospitality businesses to welcome Chinese visitors to the NT.
Department of Tourism and Culture Acting Deputy CEO Andrew Hopper said the Welcome China grant program aims to assist NT businesses to implement a range of service improvements in preparation for the anticipated arrival of Chinese visitors when direct flights to Darwin from Shenzhen commence in late April/early May (subject to regulatory approval).
Welcome China Program funding will be considered for projects including but not limited to:
translation of menus, compendiums, safety cards, brochures, websites, signage
installing Chinese friendly payment options
purchase of amenities including welcome packs.
In 2017/18 there are two levels of funding available;
China Ready and Accredited Businesses – up to $5,000 – available to businesses who have attained their China Ready and Accredited Business Level 1 certification.
Non China Ready and Accredited Businesses – up to $2,000 available.
Applications are also currently open for Mandarin speaking tour guides to undertake the Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park Tour Guide accreditation, a compulsory requirement for all tour guides working and leading tours within Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park.
Delivered by the Department of Tourism and Culture, Charles Darwin University (CDU) and Parks Australia the three day face-to-face intensive guide training will take place at Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park from 10-12 May 2018. There are 20 places available and applications close Wednesday 28 March 2018.
The entry-level training and assessment will cover the key areas of visitor safety, understanding the Park's natural and cultural values and history, how to minimise environmental impact and meeting legal compliance.
On completion of the training program and assessment, successful participants will receive their Uluru Kata Tjuta Knowledge for Tour Guides Accreditation and will be able to guide tours within Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park.
Mr Andrew Hopper said
the development and implementation of programs to promote sustainable China
market readiness was important for the Territory’s future.
“These grant initiatives addresses some of the key gaps in the market and allows us to grow our supply opportunities to support visitor growth from Greater China,” he said.
The latest international Visitor Survey results for the year ending
December 2017 showed that Greater China had an increase of 24% or 3,000 extra
holiday visitors with total holiday visitation of 16,000, making it the fastest
growing holiday market for the NT.
For more information on Chinese grant opportunities
and application forms visit http://tourismnt.com.au/en/industry-toolkit/grants-and-funding/current-programs/china-ready-industry-program, email – strategy.tourism@nt.gov.au or phone 08 8999 3808.
ENDS
Media contact:
Department of Tourism and Culture – 0428 052 647