Victorian residents are being encouraged to get in quick and take advantage of Labor’s dining and entertainment scheme as its roaring success prompts an early end.
Victorians could have just days left to take advantage of Daniel Andrews’ latest dining and entertainment scheme as its success brings forward an end to the incentive.
The Eat, Play, Cash back program – which was designed to boost spending post-COVID restrictions – offered $25 million in payments for Victorians when it opened on September 19.
The scheme was anticipated to run into the summer but the Labor government has revealed $19 million in claims have already been made since its launch.
Under the dining and entertainment program, Victorians can claim 25 per cent of their money back when they spend at least $40 on dining or entertainment experiences across the state.
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Although multiple claims can be made, money reimbursed is capped at $125 back per resident.
Industry Recovery and Support Minister Ben Carroll said it was “no surprise” Victorians had rushed to make claims under the scheme as they wined and dined at hard-working businesses across the state.
“It’s no surprise Victorians have been taking full advantage of more affordable dining and entertainment experiences, while showing community spirit in supporting their hard-working local businesses,” Mr Carrol said.
“This program is helping to support jobs, build business and consumer confidence and contribute to our state’s continued economic recovery.”
The cash back scheme has supported $85 million in dining experiences with 80 per cent of all claims so far spent on restaurants, pubs, cafes and winery experiences.
Spanning across school holidays, family friendly entertainment prompted many claims with the Luna Park amusement park and tickets to shows such as Harry Potter and the Cursed Child clear favourites.
The scheme proved a success in encouraging spending with almost 65 per cent of people who made a claim citing the program as the reason they chose to dine out or enjoy a show.
The three city suburbs that benefited most from the vouchers were Melbourne CBD, Monash, Moonee Valley as well as Mornington Peninsula and Yarra Ranges on the city’s outer fringes.
The Victorian government launched the first round of the program in March and saw a slower uptake with $32 million claimed in three months across popular CBD restaurants and performances.
For those hoping to claim some money back, eligible purchases can be lodged on the Service Victoria app until all $25 million is claimed and include dining at restaurants, cafes, pubs or attending events such as live music or gallery exhibitions.
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