South Australians have until midnight on Saturday, 31 January to enter the February draw of the Summer Plan Dining Cashback program, with the next ballot set to be run on Sunday, 1 February.
An additional 60,000 successful entrants will each receive a cashback code offering 50 per cent back on eligible dining and seafood purchases, capped at $50. The offer can be redeemed at more than 500 participating coastal hospitality and seafood businesses across the state.
The program has already delivered a sizeable boost to local spending. Since its launch, more than 100,000 cashbacks have been claimed, returning over $4 million directly to consumers. When combined with customer co-spend, total expenditure generated by the scheme has exceeded $10.8 million in its first two months. December’s allocation alone accounted for $5.42 million in spending at local venues.
The Dining Cashback initiative forms part of the State and Federal Governments’ Summer Plan and has been positioned as a way to support hospitality operators during the traditionally busy summer period. This year, that support has taken on added importance, with some coastal areas experiencing reduced visitor numbers linked to environmental challenges, including the ongoing algal bloom.
Participation in the scheme remains broad, with 504 businesses currently registered, among them 49 seafood retailers. Eligible South Australians aged 18 and over can enter the ballot, with two draws still to come on 1 February and 1 March. The program is scheduled to wrap up on 31 March 2026.
To redeem the offer, winners dine at a participating venue or purchase seafood, keep their tax invoice, and submit it online along with transaction and bank details. Once approved, cashback payments are typically deposited into the claimant’s account within five days. Winners from earlier rounds are also able to re-enter future ballots, increasing the chances to participate more than once.
Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison said early results showed the program was resonating with both customers and businesses. She pointed to the level of spending generated in a short period as evidence that the initiative was helping local communities and encouraging people to eat out and buy local.
From a business perspective, some operators report higher foot traffic and renewed interest from customers who may not have visited otherwise. William Glazbrook, manager of the Dalrymple Hotel, said the cashback scheme had helped attract both new and returning diners, while also lifting demand for local seafood and regional produce.
While the remaining draws are limited in number, organisers say the final weeks present a last opportunity for residents to take part, support coastal businesses, and enjoy dining experiences across South Australia with some of the cost returned.
Further information on eligibility, participating businesses and how to enter is available via the Summer Plan Dining Cashback website, along with full terms and conditions. Licence Nos. T25/2027 and T25/2026. Limitations apply.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
