Overview: A coordinated boost for coastal towns
South Australia is rolling out a comprehensive algal bloom summer plan designed to shield coastal communities from economic disruption while helping residents and visitors keep enjoying the state’s beaches. A central element is a $15 million program offering travel and dining vouchers, funded equally by state and federal governments, aimed at stimulating demand in algal bloom–affected areas.
Dining vouchers: 300,000 opportunities for a coastal boost
Under the scheme, 300,000 dining vouchers, each worth up to $50, will be made available to encourage people to dine at coastal hospitality venues such as restaurants, cafes, pubs, clubs, and takeaway outlets. A public ballot will open on November 3, with an initial 60,000 vouchers on offer, followed by additional ballots in December, January, February and March.
Participants who receive a voucher can claim 50 per cent off their meal, up to a $50 cap, by uploading their restaurant receipt along with the voucher code. Eligible venues must register and be located in participating postcodes. Premier Peter Malinauskas described the dining cashback as a novel approach for the state, highlighting its potential to drive significant foot traffic to coastal towns during the holidays.
Travel vouchers: expanded access to coastal getaways
In addition to dining support, a second round of the “Coast is Calling” travel vouchers will offer 30,000 vouchers—some valued up to $500—to encourage tourism along the algal bloom–affected coastline. The expansion broadens eligibility to include holiday rentals such as Airbnb, with accommodation vouchers available in three tiers: $500 for a five-night stay, $200 for a two-night stay, and $100 for a one-night stay. There are also $100 vouchers for tourism experiences.
A public ballot for these travel vouchers will run from December 1 to 3, with drawings on December 4. Vouchers can be used from December 5 to April 26, and bookings must be made by January 19. This expanded scheme is positioned to boost local hospitality and travel activity as part of the summer plan.
Part of a broader summer plan
The dining and travel voucher programs form just one part of the state’s algal bloom summer plan. Authorities have also announced enhanced monitoring, with Surf Life Saving patrols inspecting for foam and discoloured water seven days a week at six metropolitan and two regional beaches. The Beachsafe app and website will be updated to provide algal bloom information, including beach condition, last cleaning time, and fresh photographic updates for 23 locations across the state.
Premier Malinauskas emphasized that every component of the plan is funded 50/50 with the federal government, describing the package as a concerted effort to protect coastal livelihoods while keeping residents and visitors safe and informed.
What this means for residents and visitors
For consumers, the scheme offers a tangible incentive to support local businesses during a challenging period for the coast. For businesses, the program creates a structured opportunity to attract customers and sustain operations through the peak season. Officials expect the initiative to generate a notable uplift in both dining footfall and coastal tourism, offsetting some economic losses from algal bloom conditions.
What’s next
As the week unfolds, more details on the summer package are expected to emerge, including the final tally of participating venues and the exact rollout schedule. Premier Malinauskas signaled that additional measures would complete the broader plan, reinforcing the state’s commitment to protecting coastal economies and ensuring beach-going remains a reliable, enjoyable experience this summer.
