$40 million resort to provide the biggest safari experience outside of Africa in Monarto

In a major boost for the South Australian tourism economy, Monarto Zoo will undergo a $40 million transformation, with the construction of a luxury resort and glamping facilities, which will transform the site into the world's largest safari experience outside of Africa.

Gerry Ryan OAM, owner and founder of Jayco Australia, is making the investment in South Australia, following $15.8 million in funding from the federal and state governments to construct a new state-of-the-art Visitor Centre at Monarto Zoo.

The expansion will include a luxury resort with hotel rooms, a restaurant, function centres and luxury eco-glamping facilities.

The construction of the project is expected to generate 72 direct full-time jobs, and 151 indirect full-time jobs.

Federal Tourism Minister Simon Birmingham said the funding committed by the state and federal governments has provided the foundations to attract and unlock this major investment.

"With nature and wildlife tourism growing by 10 per cent year-on-year over the past five years, this new experience will turn Monarto Zoo into one of Australia's must-visit nature and wildlife destinations.

"I expect this world-class luxury experience to be a major tourism drawcard for our state and help lure thousands of extra international and domestic visitors to South Australia every year."

Premier Steven Marshall said the investment will bolster South Australia's tourism economy.

"The resort at Monarto Zoo will form part of the largest tourism attraction in regional South Australia, and is therefore a crucial pillar of the state's visitor economy," said the Premier.

"The investment from the federal and state governments for the new Visitor Centre has led to this significant private investment."

Gerry Ryan OAM said he was thrilled to be investing in this redevelopment.

"Monarto Safari Park is a standout tourism offering, and this expansion will provide visitors with an unsurpassable safari experience that will attract domestic and international visitation," says Mr Ryan.

"Tourism is a key growth sector which has a hugely positive impact on the local economy with the creation of jobs, and by attracting tourists to the region to stay in this unique accommodation.

"I believe Monarto is a jewel in South Australia's crown and the aim of this development is to create a truly memorable safari experience second only to a safari in Africa," said Mr Ryan.