The Australian Government will provide $10 million to deliver Stage 4 of the Snowies Iconic Walk, helping showcase an iconic part of the Australian landscape.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the project will complete the Kosciuszko Snowies Iconic Walk, a world-class walking experience through the internationally recognised tourism destination.
"Set in the NSW Snowy Mountains, the Snowies Iconic Walk will showcase the unique alpine ecosystems of the Kosciuszko summit precinct," the Deputy Prime Minister said.
"This is all about attracting visitors to the surrounding region, which suffered devastating social, environmental and economic losses in the 2020 bushfires.
"The Australian Government is committed to doing what it takes to back our struggling tourism operators and create economic opportunities for Australia's regions. This announcement is another example of that."
New South Wales Deputy Premier, Minister for Regional NSW and Member for Monaro John Barilaro said the continued development of region's hiking and biking trails will ensure the Snowy Mountains remains a must visit destination.
"The beauty of the Snowy Mountains is like nowhere else in the world, and this additional investment will ensure that the region cements itself as Australia's premier adventure destination," Mr Barilaro said.
"The devastating 2019/2020 bushfires and last year's COVID-19 restrictions saw the region's tourism industry take a hit but investments like this will ensure our region bounces back stronger.
"The Snowy Mountains is no longer just a winter destination, it is the destination of choice year round."
Senator for New South Wales Perin Davey said the Snowies Iconic Walk reflects the vision for Kosciuszko National Park to be recognised as the premier destination for walking in Australia.
"The Australian Government is proud to invest in world-class, sustainable facilities that protect and showcase the culturally and environmentally significant alpine environment," Senator Davey said.
"This investment will contribute to the Snowy Mountains' year-round tourism offering and attract more visitors to the region.
"I am excited about the positive economic impacts for the surrounding towns this will bring, assisting the region's recovery from the impacts of COVID-19."
Snowy Monaro Regional Council Mayor Peter Beer said that this announcement is welcomed by the community and shows continued investment in the region.
"This is a key part of a long-term project assisting to lift our visitor numbers in the non-winter months, which all helps to build on our growing year-round visitor economy in the Snowy Mountains and beyond."
Snowy Valleys Council Mayor James Hayes OAM welcomed the funding announcement saying, "Any addition to walks in the Snowy Mountains is a fantastic result in encouraging more people to explore and enjoy our region and will perfectly complement our existing trails."
The first three stages (days 1 to 3) of the Snowies Iconic Walk are currently under construction, delivering 44 kilometres of walking trails and related infrastructure from Guthega to Charlotte Pass, the Main Range loop via Mt Kosciuszko, as well as Charlotte Pass to Perisher.
The 11 kilometre trail from Perisher Valley to Bullocks Flat will complete the 55-kilometre multi day walk experience, linking the walk to premium accommodation options and further transport connections.
The project will build upon the NSW Government's $17 million investment in this iconic attraction.
This funding is part of the Australian Government's commitment of $100 million over two years to fund the Regional Recovery Partnerships in 10 regions across Australia. The Partnerships reflect the Australian Government's commitment to working with all levels of government to deliver jobs, economic recovery and economic diversification.
