If you have an idea for a project that will refresh, upgrade or develop an Australian tourism product or service, I want to remind you that there are only eight days (applications close on April 19) left to apply for the 2012 T-QUAL Grants – Tourism Quality Projects round of funding.
Projects don’t have to be large or grand to receive a T-QUAL Grant, which is why I’m encouraging large or smaller-scale tourism operators and organisations across our country to think about applying.
T-QUAL Grants is a highly competitive merit-based program that offers matched funding of between $15,000 and $100,000 (GST excl) for projects that will enhance and increase Australia’s supply of quality tourism products and experiences.
T-QUAL Grants have a track record of helping lift the profile of attractions and regions making them more appealing for visitors. Last year, we offered nearly $8.5 million to 117 projects, including everything from eco-cabins and farm stays to wine trails and interactive displays. This year, I am challenging you to come up with the most innovative ideas yet.
T-QUAL Grants are administered by the Department of Resources, Energy and Tourism and applications close at 5pm on April 19, 2012.
This year for the first time a set of short video presentations on how to apply for these T-QUAL Grants is available on YouTube at www.youtube.com/user/retgovau. For application forms and information to help you apply for the 2012 T-QUAL Grants round visit my Department’s website at www.ret.gov.au/tqual and follow the link to Tourism Quality Projects – 2012 Round.
Martin Ferguson AM MP
Minister for Tourism
