NT tourism seeks $10m support

Monday, August 23, 2021

As far as peak tourist season is concerned, last week was something like that in the Top End, but sudden announcement of lockdown related to COVID-19 in Greater Darwin and Katherine that lasted most of the week caused several businesses to stop trading and revenue loss during their busiest time of the year.

Under a newly co-financed support package, the highly stressed tourism and hospitality businesses in the Northern Territory will be suitable for payments of up to $30,000 each, as they struggle hard with stop-start visitation due to COVID-19 lockdowns all over the country.

On Friday i.e. yesterday, the federal and NT governments announced the $10.3 million package. Darwin Waterfront pub The Precinct Tavern was compelled to shut down all through the recent lockdown period, which means a whole three days of loss in trading.

Jana Sykorova, the restaurant manager, explained that as businesses have bounced back quickly after the lockdown session ended, the days-long closure meant any financial support was welcome.

“It is absolutely crucial to get some support from the government,” she said.

“If it’s enough or not, that’s hard to say.

“We are thankful for anything because if you are three days out of trade… it still seems to be nothing in comparison to other businesses, especially Darwin south, but we are very thankful for any help.”

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