Hobart parking inspectors will be handing out $50 gift cards to drivers who do the right thing, as part of a new city-wide push to keep spending local.
The Hello Hobart Gift Card launches this June, aimed at encouraging residents and visitors to shop, dine and spend at more than 60 businesses across the Hobart area.
Available in both physical and digital formats, the card can be used at restaurants, retail shops and local experience providers across the Hobart local government area.
To mark the launch, City of Hobart parking inspectors will reward drivers who display positive parking behaviour with $50 gift cards = though it won’t get anyone out of a fine.
CommBank iQ data for April shows $136 million was spent at local businesses in Hobart, up 2 per cent on the same time last year.
But with all sectors facing tough economic conditions, the council is urging people to back small businesses.
Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said the card was a way to give back to the local business community.
“Hobart is home to an incredible mix of businesses, makers and experiences, the Hello Hobart Gift Card is a way to give back to our local business community,” she said.
“I’d urge business owners across Hobart to sign up and be part of this program – it’s a great opportunity to reach new audiences and be part of a city-wide push to support local.”
The program is open to independently owned businesses in the Hobart area that hold an active Tasmanian ABN.
Businesses receive full payment for every transaction made through the cards.
Acting CEO of the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Colleen Readon said the initiative was a simple but effective way to support local retailers.
“We welcome initiatives that encourage Tasmanians to shop local and keep money circulating within our community,” she said.
Rhea Carr-Davies, owner of Habeo and a gift card participant, said getting involved was straightforward.
“Getting set up was simple, and the City of Hobart team has provided great resources to help us promote our involvement,” she said.
“We’re excited to be part of something that encourages people to support local and helps drive more spending in Hobart businesses.”
Customers can buy the cards online at hellohobart.com.au/giftcard or at the council’s customer service centre at 16 Elizabeth Street.
