The vouchers are intended to support local tourism businesses until borders are re-opened to interstate visitors.

Katherine experienced a mini tourism boom on the long weekend but local operators fear until borders are re-opened it will be short-lived.

More than 26,000 vouchers worth $200 will be available from July 1, Territory Day, for Territorians to put towards a tourism experience, tour, accommodation, hire car or recreational fishing charter, so long as they match the spend with their own money.

The $5.2 million voucher initiative is supported by a marketing campaign 'Never have I ever...' encouraging Territorians to book a local tourism experience they have never got around to enjoying for themselves.

The voucher scheme has been developed in partnership with Northern Territory Regional Tourism Organisations, Tourism Top End and Tourism Central Australia.

From July 1, Territorians aged 18 years and over will be able to register and redeem their Territory Tourism Voucher at www.territoryvoucher.nt.gov.au.

Voucher holders will then be able to book their chosen tourism experience online, over the phone or in person through their local Visitor Information Centres in Katherine, Darwin, Tennant Creek and Alice Springs.

The vouchers must be used on a "bookable product" available through these centres.

Hospitality venues will also be able to benefit from the vouchers by packaging their offerings with a tourism product such as a 'Stay and Meal' deal.

This will encourage hospitality businesses to create partnerships with tourism and accommodation operators, creating long-term benefits for both.

Vouchers are valid for 30 days, with bookings and travel to be completed by October 31, 2020.

Chief Minister Michael Gunner said: "We are doing whatever it takes to protect as many jobs as possible through the coronavirus crisis.

"The Territory is the safest place in Australia because Territorians have been the best during this crisis. Being the best also means supporting Territory businesses.

"Our tourism and hospitality industries have been hardest hit by the coronavirus. The Territory Tourism Voucher will give them the boost they need ahead of our borders re-opening.

"Given our success in crushing corona, I'm confident we can ease border restrictions sooner rather than later. Until then, it's up to us locals to be the Territory's tourists.

"Explore our backyard, buy local and back locals - before the tourists arrive. This will give local operators the support they need and help them prepare to welcome tourists from interstate once it's safe to do so."

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