Intro
The Activating Alfresco Rebate Program, administered by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, has so far enabled more than 280 eligible WA hospitality businesses to update, expand and improve their outdoor areas.
The department’s Executive Director Local Government, Tim Fraser, said that the rebates, worth up to $5000 per business, recognised the need for continued COVID recovery and were good for the local economy.
“This program has allowed local businesses to consider how they may make their outdoor areas more attractive to diners, as it is now a preferred option for many.
“Activating outdoor areas also adds vibrancy to our local spaces. It’s been great to see how many local governments have been assisting local business in making improvements to encourage better use of outdoor areas.”
Exhale Exmouth used its $5000 rebate to buy additional tables and chairs for its outdoor space, expanding restaurant capacity from 50 to 72.
Business owner Adam Moir said the rebate had made a tremendous difference to his business.
“COVID had a massive impact on the Exmouth community and closed our restaurant for two weeks he said.
“People love the outdoor dining experience, so this rebate has enabled us to expand not only our alfresco area but strengthen our business.”
Other businesses to benefit from the rebate include the Tree of Life café in Mandurah, which used its rebate for furniture, shade sail and lighting.
The Bunbury Dolphin Discovery Centre invested in an array of items to improve alfresco experience, including decorative lighting, furniture, and a mobile bar, while Fu Lu Shou in Northbridge levelled its outdoor area, putting in decking, AstroTurf matting, and additional outdoor furniture.
The Activating Alfresco Rebate Program closed on 27 June. Only operating for a little over three months, the program resulted in more than $2.6 million in rebates being paid to 552 local businesses for items to improve their alfresco areas.
In addition to outdoor settings, other items purchased by businesses under the rebate program include umbrellas, plants, children’s play equipment and water stations.