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The Victorian Government has revealed a move to help elevate its tourism landscape with the announcement of 29 new regional projects that will receive significant funding through the Enabling Tourism Fund 2024.

Part of a strategy to drive economic growth, create local jobs and enhance the state’s array of tourist attractions, the initiatives were unveiled last week by Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos, during a visit to the Art Gallery of Ballarat.

The Enabling Tourism Fund: A Catalyst for Regional Development
The Enabling Tourism Fund 2024, which provides grants of up to $500,000, is designed to help regional tourism projects reach investment-ready status. The funding will support feasibility studies, the design of future infrastructure, and the development of masterplans that will ensure these projects are not only viable but also sustainable in the long term.

The Fund is part of a $170 million investment by the Victorian Government aimed at boosting regional economies, bolstering local tourism and attracting more visitors to regional areas,

Emphasising the importance of this initiative, Minister Dimopoulos stated “our investment in these regional projects is about more than just enhancing tourist attractions; it’s about creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and ensuring that Victoria remains a top destination for both domestic and international visitors.”

Highlighting Regional Victoria’s Tourism Gems
Among the projects to receive funding is the Art Gallery of Ballarat, Australia’s oldest regional gallery. The gallery will use its grant to develop a comprehensive masterplan that will allow it to host blockbuster exhibitions, drawing more visitors to Ballarat. The gallery, a cultural icon in the region, will be positioned to further elevate its status as a premier arts destination, attracting art enthusiasts from across the country and around the world.

Another significant project receiving funding is Bendigo’s Great Stupa, which will use the grant to create a detailed masterplan for a new visitor center. This center will include a cafe, museum, wellness hotel, and spa, further enhancing Bendigo’s appeal as a cultural and spiritual destination. The Great Stupa, already a significant landmark, is set to become an even more prominent attraction, drawing visitors interested in wellness and cultural experiences.

In Geelong and the Bellarine area, Masterchef’s Simon Toohey and his Sustainable Earth Network will use the funding to explore the creation of a permanent market. This market will showcase local food producers, growers, and manufacturers, highlighting the region’s rich agricultural heritage and promoting sustainable practices. This project not only supports local farmers and artisans but also aligns with the growing demand for authentic, locally-sourced food experiences.

Phillip Island, already renowned for its wildlife attractions, will see further development with funding going to Reptile Encounters. The grant will support the development of plans for a state-of-the-art zoo, adding to the island’s array of nature and wildlife experiences. This new attraction is expected to draw even more visitors to Phillip Island, further solidifying its status as a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

The Strategic Vision: Experience Victoria 2033
The Enabling Tourism Fund is a crucial component of the Labor Government’s broader Experience Victoria 2033 strategic plan. This plan outlines five priority areas designed to leverage Victoria’s competitive advantages: First Peoples’-led experiences, Wellness, Arts and Culture, Food and Drink, and Nature. Each of the projects receiving funding under the Enabling Tourism Fund aligns with these priorities, ensuring that Victoria continues to offer unique and compelling experiences that set it apart from other destinations.

The Experience Victoria 2033 plan is not just about expanding the state’s tourism offerings; it’s about creating a tourism ecosystem that is sustainable, inclusive, and resilient. By focusing on these five key areas, the plan aims to attract a diverse range of visitors, from cultural tourists and wellness seekers to food enthusiasts and nature lovers. This approach not only enhances the visitor experience but also supports local communities by creating jobs, stimulating economic activity, and preserving Victoria’s natural and cultural heritage.

Economic Impact and Job Creation
The projects funded through the Enabling Tourism Fund are expected to have a significant economic impact on regional Victoria. By supporting these initiatives, the Victoria Government is not only enhancing the state’s tourism infrastructure but also creating numerous local jobs in the process. From construction and hospitality to arts and culture, the ripple effects of these projects will be felt across a wide range of industries.

Highlighting the economic benefits of these investments, Minister Dimopoulos added “tourism is a key driver of our state’s economy, particularly in regional areas. By investing in these projects, we’re ensuring that communities across Victoria can benefit from the economic opportunities that tourism brings.”

Images: The Art Gallery of Ballarat, Australia’s oldest regional gallery (top) and Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos (below).

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