Getting more Aussies on the road to the Red Centre

The Albanese Government is delivering for Australia’s iconic Red Centre, with Tourism Central Australia’s (TCA) new campaign designed to get more Australians on the road and exploring some of Australia’s most recognisable landscapes and unique First Nations cultural experiences.

Funded through the government’s $5 million Red Centre Marketing Boost The Red Centre Drive Voucher campaign will see $500 vouchers awarded to 600 interstate visitors on a first come, first-served basis. The vouchers can be redeemed with eligible accommodation operators in the Red Centre, including caravan parks, wayside inns, roadhouses and campgrounds. 

The Red Centre is a must-see destination for travellers from near and far, and this campaign will make sure more Australians are able to travel to the Red Centre, support local businesses, and experience first-hand what makes the region so special.

Interstate visitors can register for the voucher program on Tourism Central Australia’s website from today. Entrants will be assessed on a first come, first served basis and successful applicants will be notified on 5 October 2026. 

The Red Centre Marketing Boost is part of an $8.5 million investment into the Red Centre, including the $1 million Alice Springs Revival and Resilience grant program, and $2.5 million in grants delivered to local tourism businesses through the Red Centre Tourism Development Fund. These initiatives are part of the Government’s commitment to regional tourism industry under THRIVE 2030, the national visitor economy strategy.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Trade and Tourism, Don Farrell

"The Albanese Government is backing regional tourism because we know it delivers real economic benefits, helping local operators grow, creating local jobs and showcasing the very best of Australia."

"This campaign will attract more visitors, boost local spending and ensure the benefits of tourism flow directly to businesses and communities across the Red Centre."

"Every visitor who stays a little longer, explores a little further, and spends a little more helps strengthen Central Australia's tourism industry and the communities that rely on it."

Quotes attributable to the Assistant Minister for Tourism, Nita Green

"The Red Centre is one of Australia's most recognisable destinations, and investing in regional tourism helps ensure local communities can continue sharing their unique landscapes, cultures and experiences with visitors from Australia and around the world."

"These vouchers will encourage more Australians to take the road less travelled, supporting regional communities and creating lasting memories along the way."

Quotes attributable to Marion Scrymgour, Member for Lingiari

"There is nowhere else in Australia quite like Central Australia. From our incredible landscapes to our rich First Nations cultures, there is so much here to experience."

"Self-drive tourism brings economic prosperity. When people stay, eat, visit an attraction or buy something locally, that money helps support local businesses and local jobs."

"I congratulate the Albanese Government and Tourism Central Australia on this innovative campaign, that will see the local tourism industry grow and allow more visitors to experience and share the very best the Red Centre has to offer."