The state government’s dining and entertainment program has processed more than 700,000 successful claims by Victorians in the past two weeks, including those in Hume and Whittlesea.
The Dining and Entertainment Program – Eat. Play. Cash Back is set to put$25 million into peoples’ pockets, while supporting Victoria’s business sector – $19 million in claims has already been paid.
The program allows customers to claim 25 per cent cash back when they spend $40 or more enjoying the best experiences in the state. Customers can claim up to $125 cash back each and make claims until they reach the cap.
Industry Support and Recovery Minister Ben Carroll said it was no surprise Victorians were taking up the scheme with gusto.
“This program is helping to support jobs, build business and consumer confidence and contribute to our state’s continued economic recovery, ” he said.
In a statement, the government said the cash back scheme has supported consumer spending on dining and experiences worth more than $85 million across Victoria.
“Families spent plenty of time enjoying the school holidays and AFL Grand Final long weekend festivities, making the most of the state’s world-class entertainment scene, with the Melbourne Royal Show, cinema trips, museums, and zoos among the most popular for claims,” the government said.
“Amusement park outings like Luna Park made up almost 20 percent of claims for entertainment while the theatre was also popular with 11 percent of claims used to snap up tickets for shows such as Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Hamilton and Come From Away.
“Dining out and take-away also was a hit with almost 80 percent of all claims so far spent on restaurants, pubs, cafes and winery experiences.
“Almost 65 per cent of people who made a claim said they made their purchase because of the program or spent more than they otherwise would have.”
The program is part of the government’s $200 million Victorian Business Stimulus Package.
Details: vic.gov.au/dining-entertainment.
