Funding lifeline to support zoos and aquariums
Member for Herbert Phillip Thompson has welcomed the Federal Government’s $94.6 million support package to help Australian zoos and aquariums get through the COVID-19 crisis.
Mr Thompson said that the zoos and aquariums played a vital role in the conservation and protection of native and endangered species and in the local economy, acting as a tourism draw card for the city.
“We can’t underestimate the huge positive flow-on effects these attractions provide to the local economy. These attractions bring thousands of visitors into our community every year, with visitors staying locally, eating at local restaurants and taking in all the attractions our City has to offer.”
“This funding will assist exhibiting zoos and aquariums with the large fixed operational costs associated with the caring of their animals, while helping to ensure that they can remain viable and ready to welcome visitors when restrictions are eased.”
Eligible exhibiting zoos and aquariums will have access to a grant that contributes towards up to six months of its animal welfare operating costs. This includes animal feed, enclosure, health and other specialised care expenses, and utilities directly related to the housing and caring for animals.
Mr Thompson said visitor restrictions placed immense pressure on the operating budgets of zoos and aquariums given the very high fixed operating and animal welfare costs.
“Our local attractions are battling at present with their visitor revenue streams stopping in the last few months. The funding will assist them until they can reopen their doors to locals and tourists alike.”
In addition to this support to help with operational costs, zoos and aquariums who meet the criteria will be able to apply for the JobKeeper program to assist with staffing costs.
Austrade will work with the Zoo and Aquarium Association to identify eligible members, as well as state and territory tourism organisations to identify non-members which may be eligible for financial assistance.
This initiative is part of the Government’s $1 billion Relief and Recovery Fund to support regions, communities and industry sectors that have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19.
ENDS