Litchfield Council and the City of Palmerston are the next in line to launch their business boosting voucher scheme, supported by the Territory Labor Government.
Following the success of the popular myDarwin scheme initiated by City of Darwin - an online platform that provides discounts to the community to incentivise spending in support of local businesses - the Territory Government, in conjunction with City of Darwin, is offering the opportunity for this program to be extended across the NT.
The City of Palmerston is investing $60,000 into the scheme with the Territory Government committing $160,000 to encourage Palmerston locals to go out and support local.
Litchfield Council has committed $40,000 to the voucher scheme, with the NT Government kicking in $140,000 to get locals in the Litchfield municipality out exploring businesses in their community.
The Territory Labor Government offered a funding pool worth $1 million to local governments to take part in this local business-boosting scheme, with an objective to provide a boost to regional economies.
The program supports local businesses and stimulates the economy as the Territory rebounds from the impacts of COVID-19.
Once underway, residents will be able to register, receive and redeem vouchers via a web application using mobile devices to spend at local businesses, including retail and hospitality.
Territorians are encouraged to use the discounts both at home and on holiday, as they explore the amazing experiences our own back yard has to offer.
More than 360 local Darwin businesses signed up for the myDarwin voucher scheme and every dollar invested in the program has generated another $6 million spent within the community.
Quotes from Chief Minister Michael Gunner:
“We are doing whatever it takes to protect as many jobs as possible through the coronavirus crisis.
“Our Territory local governments have also been assisting Territorians during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It is great to see our local Councils jumping on board and taking part in this job saving business boosting scheme.
“The Territory is the safest place in Australia because Territorians have been the best during this crisis. Being the best also means supporting Territory businesses.
“Let’s all keep being the best Territorians we can be.”
Quotes from Litchfield Council Mayor Maree Bredhauer:
“This is a great opportunity for Litchfield Council to work with the NT Government to support our local businesses.
“Litchfield Council looks forward to promoting this initiative throughout the community and encouraging residents to shop with our local businesses.”
Quotes from City of Palmerston Mayor Athina Pascoe-Bell:
“We are delighted to launch this local business initiative in Palmerston.
“City of Palmerston has implemented this scheme to promote economic growth within the Palmerston community during these challenging times.
“It is great that we can achieve this by also rewarding consumers with discount vouchers, which will be accessible from 29th September. Coupled with our on-going free parking within the City Centre, this scheme is another great reason for people to shop in Palmerston.
“The scheme is free for businesses and customers to participate and I encourage everyone to get on board.”
Media Contacts:
Chief Minister: Hannah Farmer, 0428 497 154
Litchfield Mayor: Nicky McMaster, 08 8983 0636
Palmerston Mayor: Samantha Abdic, 0419 824 731