Business Hunter is encouraging the community to use the NSW Government’s Dine and Discover vouchers before they expire on 30 June 2022.

“The NSW Governments Dine and Discover Voucher system was a popular announcement last year, giving eligible NSW residents six $25 vouchers to be redeemed at local hospitality and entertainment businesses,” said Business Hunter, CEO Bob Hawes.

“The vouchers were first introduced to help the state’s economic recovery following COVID-19 restrictions and lockdowns which saw business revenue dramatically decrease,” Mr Hawes said.

“We know they have been well used in specific cases however, we understand there is currently over $300million worth of the vouchers across NSW unused.  If you deduce the Hunter is about 10% of the states population, it could represent $30million here locally still to spend. This means there are plenty of vouchers which can be used to support local businesses on the back of free money from government.

“Most Covid restrictions on businesses have eased in recent months and as mandatory ‘check ins’ were removed, the vouchers were no longer front-of-mind for many patrons and businesses entering a business. I only recently realised I still had 2 of 6 vouchers to use.

“Dine vouchers can be used at eligible restaurants and pubs for dine-in or take-away right across the region. While Discover vouchers can be used at eligible cinemas, museums, galleries, zoos, wildlife parks, theatres, amusement parks and indoor entertainment such as bowling, go-karting, indoor climbing and mini-golf.

“Now is the last time to make the best use of these vouchers and contribute to your local community. At some participating venues you can pre-purchase your tickets using the vouchers.

“As well as the Dine and Discover vouchers, each eligible NSW adult can receive a $50 Stay NSW voucher which can be redeemed up to October.

“With interest rates and inflation hitting every resident and business, now is the time to use your Dine, Discover and Stay vouchers – supporting your business community and enjoying a discounted meal, show or holiday on behalf of the NSW Government,” Mr Hawes said.