More than 25,000 vouchers across the values of $50, $100 and $200 will be offered to South Australian residents to inject millions into the communities hit by Murray River flooding.

The first of three rounds of vouchers is valid for travel from 31 March 2023 to 29 June 2023 – including the Easter break and SA April school holidays.

Further, a $750 houseboat and guided tour voucher will also be introduced in rounds two and three, allowing South Australians to plan a holiday with a minimum booking value of $2,000.

Registrations for the first round of vouchers commences 27 March 2023 and closes on 29 March 2023 with the vouchers timed and staggered to allow for tourism operators to be ready to welcome the boost in visitation by voucher holders. 

South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas said the government has committed $190 million to get people travelling again, spending up, filling the cafes and pubs, and helping our river economies recover strongly and sustainably.

“For us it was important to get this right, and to make sure the vouchers can make a difference to tourism operators right along the river,” Mr Malinauskas said. 

Minister for Tourism and Multicultural Affairs Zoe Bettison urged South Australians to take a holiday and help tourism operators impacted by the so-called once-in-a-century flooding event.

“The Murray River is an incredible natural wonder right on our doorstep and a truly iconic Australian holiday experience, so let’s get out there and support our fellow South Australians in our river communities,” Ms Bettison said. 

“I implore South Aussies to make sure they register for a River Revival Voucher when they’re available, book a holiday and enjoy everything that is on offer.”

Where can the vouchers be used?

Under the River Revival Voucher program, the South Australian Government details River Revival Vouchers can be used only on participating hosted experiences and accommodation of an equal or higher value.

  • $50 vouchers can be applied to experiences valued at $50 or more.
  • $100 vouchers can be applied to accommodation valued at $100 or more for a one-night stay including Saturday.
  • $200 vouchers can be applied to accommodation valued at $200 or more for a two-night minimum stay, including Saturday.

How to apply for a voucher

South Australian residents aged 18 and over can register their interest for the River Revival Voucher program from 27 March 2023 through the South Australian tourism website.

The vouchers will also be open to Victorian residents aged 18 and over, with further terms and conditions to be made available prior to the ballot opening.

Key dates:

  • River Revival Voucher ballot opens: Monday 27 March 2023 - Wednesday 29 March 2023 
  • River Revival Voucher ballot drawn: Thursday March 30
  • Booking period: Thursday March 30 – Friday April 28
  • Travel period: Friday March 31 – Thursday June 29

Image by Zac Edmonds via Unsplash