The NSW Government has launched its ‘Out and About’ voucher scheme, which aims to support the hospitality, arts and cultural sectors, and residents are urged to head to their local pub for a meal.
AHA NSW has welcomed the State Budget initiative which will see NSW adults eligible for four $25 vouchers, and two of the vouchers can be used for dining out at hotels.
AHA NSW CEO John Whelan said this was a tremendous initiative which will help all hotels, as the sector and hotel employment continues to be impacted by the pandemic.
“Pubs right across the state are still operating under significant trading restrictions so this is the perfect reason to get down to your local pub, show your support and let the NSW Government shout you a burger or a schnitzel,” Whelan said.
The four $25 vouchers will be available to NSW residents aged 18 and over through the ServicesNSW app.
The vouchers can be used at participating eligible NSW businesses and venues who are registered as COVID Safe and will be divided into two categories:
- dining out – two vouchers can be used to purchase food at venues such including pubs.
- going out – two vouchers can be used for activities, such as visiting cultural institutions, performing arts, cinemas and amusement parks.
AHA NSW also welcomed other measures in the NSW State Budget including Payroll Tax changes which will see a temporary reduction in the PT rate, from 5.45 per cent to 4.85 per cent for two years and a permanent increase in the PT threshold, from $900,000 to $1.2 million from 1 July 2020.
Other welcome measures included $1500 digital vouchers for small and medium businesses and on-going relief for commercial landlords supporting tenants.
NSW hotels directly employ 75,000 people across the state