Business

Businesses encouraged to sign up for new voucher programs

Eligible accommodation providers across the State can now register to take part in two of the NSW Government’s new voucher programs – Parents NSW and Stay NSW.

Both programs will be implemented using the existing Dine & Discover NSW infrastructure.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said families will be able to access the Parents NSW vouchers and Stay NSW vouchers from February.

“This stimulus is just what families and businesses need with school holidays concluding. Parents across all communities have made huge sacrifices during the pandemic and we want to say thank you to all of them,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Eligible customers will soon be able to redeem their $250 worth of Parents NSW vouchers and $50 Stay NSW voucher with registered Stay NSW businesses, which is a huge win for the accommodation and tourism sectors which have been especially hard hit by the pandemic.

“The voucher programs will have a multiplier effect on the economy – and this will encourage families to spend a night or a weekend exploring Sydney or a regional town, while also spending on sightseeing and other activities.”

Treasurer Matt Kean said the vouchers form part of the NSW Government’s $2.8 billion Covid-19 Economic Recovery Strategy announced in October and come on the back of the more the $1billion Covid business support package announced this week.

“These vouchers are a win-win for industry and families and encourage more families to explore our incredible State and bolster local economies,” Mr Kean said.

“We’ve stood shoulder to shoulder with industry throughout the pandemic and this is another program that will help keep businesses open and keep workers in jobs.”

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello said with millions of vouchers to be issued to NSW residents soon, businesses should get ready to boost their income by registering for both programs.

“To take part in the two programs, businesses only have to register once through Service NSW. Once approved, all accommodation providers need to do is simply download the Service NSW for Business app and start scanning vouchers,” Mr Dominello said.

“Whether you’re a hotel in Sydney, motel in rural NSW or a holiday park on a coastal town, we want you to take advantage of this stimulus and see more customers come through your doors.”

Businesses will be paid within ten days after redeeming a voucher.

Customers can pool multiple Stay NSW vouchers with friends or family for the same booking at registered accommodation providers, big or small. Parents NSW vouchers can be combined and used to redeem $250 off your accommodation account.

Bookings made through third party providers such as online booking platforms and travel agents are not included in the program.

Participating businesses will be able to redeem vouchers seven days a week, including public holidays. Customers will be able to search for participating accommodation providers on the easy-touse hotel finder.

Discover NSW registered businesses do not have to re-register to accept Parents NSW vouchers, but can still register if they have yet to do so.

For more information on how to register a business, visit www. service.nsw.gov.au/ transaction/registerbusiness-stay-nswvouchers.

Jobs program reaps rewards

A program helping veterans secure jobs in the NSW public sector has exceeded its employment target, and is 12 months ahead of schedule.

Minister for Veterans David Elliott said over 1,200 veterans have transitioned into civilian roles since 2018, thanks to the success of the Veterans Employment Program.

“When this terrific program was extended in 2018, a target was set to help 1,000 veterans secure public sector jobs in NSW by 2023,” Mr Elliott said.

“I’m delighted that we continue to exceed the original employment target and provide job opportunities for exservice men and women that are looking for a new career path.

“This program is instrumental in helping our veterans enjoy a smoother transition from military service to civilian life, and means we retain the skills, knowledge and experience of our outstanding former service personnel.”

Developed by the NSW Office for Veterans Affairs, the program assists managers and veterans in understanding how defence force skills and experience align with roles within the NSW Government.