What is the Warrnambool Gift Card Program?
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The Warrnambool Gift Card program (facilitated by Why Leave Town) is a local shopping initiative that helps keep money circulating within Warrnambool. The gift cards can only be used at participating, locally owned and operated businesses within the Warrnambool City Council boundary, ensuring every dollar spent stays in the local economy.
There is no cost or risk for businesses to be involved, and they can join the program at any time after launch — meaning the network of participating businesses will continue to grow.
Across Australia, Why Leave Town programs have contributed to over $25 million being reinvested back into local communities.
Warrnambool Gift Cards are a great option for:
- Birthdays and special occasions
- Staff incentives or gifts
- Sponsorships or community rewards
- “Just because” gifts for friends and family
Keep local dollars local with a Warrnambool Gift Card.
How does it work for a business?
- Sign Up: Click the link and complete the registration form. There are no costs or risks involved.
Register Here - Terminal Activation: Your EFTPOS payment terminals will be activated remotely to accept the gift cards (powered by Mastercard). You do not need to do anything for this to occur. You’ll receive an email when your activation is complete.
- Processing Gift Cards: Customers can spend their card in your business by tapping, inserting or swiping and entering their PIN — just like a normal card transaction.
- Promotion and Support: An information pack (including cheat sheets, troubleshooting tips and key contacts) will be delivered to your business. You’ll also receive printed and digital marketing materials to help you promote the program.
Businesses can join or withdraw from the program at any time.
How does it work for customers?
- Purchase a Gift Card:
Visitor Information Centre – 89 Merri St, Warrnambool
Civic Centre – 25 Liebig St, Warrnambool
Online (single or bulk physical or digital gift cards): Why Leave Town Warrnambool - Find Where to Spend: Scan the QR code on the back of your gift card to see the 140+ participating stores.
Alternatively, visit whyleavetown.com/warrnambool - Spend: You can use your gift card all at once or across multiple stores until the full balance has been used.
- Check Your Balance: Enter your card number here: Check Card Balance
In store purchases are via card only and will incur credit card surcharge fees applicable to each individual transaction.
Need Support?
Contact the Warrnambool City Council Economic Development team at
ecodev@warrnambool.vic.gov.au or call (03) 5559 4925.
Find out more about the program at: www.whyleavetown.com/warrnambool