FUNDING BOOST TO GROW INTERNATIONAL TOURISM IN THE TWEED
The Tweed’s tourism industry is set to benefit from a significant funding boost, with a successful Export Market Development Grant (EMDG) win supporting efforts to expand international visitation and strengthen local business training for inbound tourism.
The Tweed Tourism Company has been awarded $30,500 in funding for 2025-2026, with the opportunity to access an additional $43,000 in 2026-2027, representing potential matched funding from the Federal Government’s Austrade totalling $73,500 over two years.
The grant will enable targeted programs to support local tourism operators in reaching global markets through export marketing initiatives, promotional activities, and Austrade-approved training to enhance international market readiness.
Sally Scott, General Manager of The Tweed Tourism Company, said the funding grant was a unique opportunity to build The Tweed’s profile and readiness for more international visitation, with recent data showing a 5.5% rise to 25,899 inbound visitors staying an average of 10 nights in the region.
“By equipping our tourism operators with the skills, knowledge and access they need to reach international markets, we’re not only strengthening individual businesses but also reinforcing The Tweed’s position as a must-visit destination for overseas visitors.”
“This valued support via Austrade aligns closely with our Destination Management Plan, ensuring that The Tweed continues to grow sustainably while attracting high-value international visitors who stay longer and engage deeply with our region.”
“The funding will contribute to key initiatives for our tourism industry in 2025 and beyond, including mentoring programs, capacity-building workshops, international representation and broader international market readiness development.”
The funding was announced at a tourism operator workshop held in The Tweed’s Cabarita Beach, designed to help businesses grow by learning more about online travel agents, wholesale and inbound tour operators and how to target new markets including attracting international visitors.
Guest speakers at the tourism operator workshop included the Gold Coast Airport, Intrepid Travel, Booking.com and Destination North Coast.
ENDS
Media enquiries: Louise Terry | lterry@thetweed.com.au | 0419 743 143
The Tweed Tourism Company is the official tourism development and destination marketing agency for The Tweed through a partnership with Tweed Shire Council.