Red Centre Tourism Development Fund

⁠⁠⁠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.

Eligibility:

• Section 4 of the grant guidelines outlines who is eligible to apply.
• Section 5 of the grant guidelines outlines what the funding can be used for.

Grant Activity Timeframe:

• The program opens for applications at 10:30am ACST (midday AEDT) on 5 March 2026.
• Questions should be sent no later than 3:30pm ACST (4pm AEST) on 8 April 2026.
• The closing date for grant applications is 4:30pm ACST (5pm AEST) on 13 April 2026.
• Grantees must acquit all funds by 30 June 2027.

Total Amount Available (AUD):

$2,500,000.00

Estimated Grant Value (AUD):

From $10,000.00 to $250,000.00

Instructions for Application Submission:

Applications must be submitted online using SmartyGrants before the closing date.

Other Instructions:

To apply you must:

• complete the online application form available using the SmartyGrants portal
• provide all the information requested
• address and meet all eligibility criteria
• include all necessary attachments
• submit your application by 4:30pm ACST (5pm AEST) on Monday 13 April 2026