Red Centre Tourism Development Fund

Overview

Program objective The objective of the Program is to develop new and innovative tourism offerings or upgrade existing products and experiences in the Red Centre (Alice Springs, MacDonnell, Barkly and Lasseter tourism regions). Projects must support a bookable product or experience. Intended program outcomes renewed tourism interest and activity in the Red Centre development of tourism offerings in the Red Centre region to diversify/compliment gaps in the market increased visitation and spend in the Red Centre improved local employment opportunities increased positive reputation of the Red Centre as a destination Grant amounts The Australian Government has announced a total of $2.5 million program funding for the Red Centre Tourism Development Fund. The minimum grant amount is $10,000. The maximum grant amount is $250,000. You will be required to contribute an amount of cash towards the grant activities. This amount will be between 25% to 50% of the total cost of the project. The program will run over the 2025-26 and 2026-27 financial years.

Key Information

Provider

Australian Goverment

Government

Funding Amount

$10,000 - $250,000

Opening Date

March 5, 2026

Agency

Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade)

Location

Red Centre, Australia

Reference Number

GO8197

Country

Australia

Details

Eligibility Criteria

Australian Business Number (ABN)
To be eligible you must have an Australian Business Number (ABN).
Solvency
You must be solvent/not under insolvency administration.
Financial Institution Account
You must have an account with an Australian financial institution.
Legal Entity
You must be a legal entity with the capacity to enter into a legally binding agreement or contract.
Annual Turnover
You must have an annual business turnover for the 2024-25 financial year of less than $5 million.
Operational History
You must have operated during the current financial year (2025-26) and for the majority of financial year 2024-25.
Tourism Business Classification
You must be primarily a tourism business and classified as one or more of the following categories: accommodation, attractions, events, tours, food and drink, transport, hire (equipment or vehicles).
Membership
You must hold a current membership with a regional tourism organisation, a tourism peak body or another relevant industry peak body.

Deliverables

Develop new and innovative tourism offerings
Upgrade existing tourism products and experiences
Increase visitor numbers and spend in the Red Centre

Evaluation Criteria

Project Alignment with Program Objectives30 points%

Demonstrate how the project promotes interest and activity in the Red Centre, increases tourism offerings, and improves local employment opportunities.

Capacity, Capability and Resources40 points%

Show track record in managing similar projects, risk management, and ability to complete the project within the timeframe.

Commitment to Local Visitor Economy20 points%

Describe alignment with THRIVE 2030 and other regional tourism strategies.

How to Apply

Method: Online portal
Portal: SmartyGrants portal on the Austrade website
Contact: Tourism.Grants@austrade.gov.au

Conditions & Exclusions

•You cannot use funding from other government sources for your cash contribution.
•Projects must be completed by 15 May 2027.
•One grant per eligible business.