Even when lockdown is over, it's not really over. The dining, arts and entertainment sectors have been among the hardest hit as a result of necessary restrictions over the past year, but the NSW government announced a plan last year to encourage people to get out and support their cultural and food institutions.
In November 2020, treasurer Dominic Perrottet outlined a new scheme which would give residents of the state aged 18 and over four $25 vouchers to use to enjoy their cities and towns. Two are to be used in cafés, bars and restaurants, and the other two are dedicated for use in entertainment venues.
Now, a whole bunch of Sydney bars and restaurants from two major hospitality groups in Sydney, the Sydney Collective and Australian Venue Co, are giving you the opportunity to double your vouchers if you spend with them. The former group's venues include the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel, the Morrison Bar and Oyster Room, the Imperial in Erskineville, Park House, Northies, Manly's Daniel San and the city's Taylor's Rooftop, and Balcony in Byron Bay. The AVC's venues include Cargo Bar, the Rook, Beer Deluxe, Bungalow 8, Kingsleys in Woolloomooloo, Manly Wine, the Loft, the Winery and Barangaroo rooftop Untied.
A couple of disclaimers: you can't combine each $25 voucher, or use them on alcohol – but that's still a solid amount of cash you can double the value of at these participating venues. The vouchers are due to be rolled out soon – we'll keep you posted when more details are available.