Tasmanian operators set for winter boost with $10m eating out vouchers

Tasmanian restaurants, cafés, pubs, and accommodation providers are being urged to prepare for a winter surge as the State Government launches a $10 million voucher program to stimulate the visitor economy through the colder months.

Premier and Minister for Tourism Jeremy Rockliff today announced the Eat Local, Stay Local initiative. Under this initiative, 100,000 vouchers worth $100 each will be made available to Tasmanians to spend on eligible hospitality, accommodation, and experience offerings across the state.

The initiative is designed to drive local spending during the traditionally quieter winter period, offering a much-needed boost to the hospitality and tourism sectors.

“This is about getting Tasmanians out to enjoy a good meal or a local getaway while also putting real dollars into our businesses,” Premier Rockliff said. “Whether it’s a hotel room, a meal or an adventure, we’ve got part of the cost covered.”

Voucher registrations open on Monday, 2 June, and will run for two weeks. At the end of the month, vouchers will be allocated through a ballot and must be used by 31 October 2025.

For hospitality professionals, this initiative presents a valuable opportunity to attract locals seeking winter escapes or dining experiences. The Premier said similar past programs have proven effective in driving foot traffic and spending in regional areas and metro centres.

The voucher scheme complements the recently launched Spirit of Tasmania Free Car Fare campaign, which aims to encourage interstate visitors to bring their vehicles to the island, stay longer, and spend more with local operators.

These initiatives are part of the government’s broader $27.8 million tourism and hospitality support package, a key pillar of its 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future.

Restaurants and hospitality operators interested in becoming eligible for voucher redemption should monitor updates and criteria via: stategrowth.tas.gov.au/eatlocalstaylocal