Tourism operators in the State's Mid-West will be given a helping hand with the McGowan Government today announcing further financial support for businesses servicing Kalbarri National Park.
Commercial operations licence fees and park entry fees will be waived for licensed commercial tourism operators located in the Shire of Northampton and operating tours within Kalbarri National Park for the 2021-22 financial year.
In addition to this, the McGowan Government, through Tourism WA, has provided $250,000 to the Mid-West Development Commission to support the redevelopment of public tourism infrastructure in Kalbarri damaged by the cyclone.
Cyclone Seroja caused significant damage to the Shire of Northampton and these measures complement the joint State-Commonwealth record $104.5 million disaster recovery package for affected communities.
They also add to the recently announced joint State-Commonwealth support package for tourism businesses impacted by the COVID-19 situation in the eastern states.
Tourism WA is also working with the Mid-West Development Commission and the Shire of Northampton to identify public infrastructure needs in the community, including plans for the revitalisation of the foreshore area.
The funding and collaboration follows the 12-month appointment of a Tourism WA project officer in Geraldton. The project officer is working with local governments, State agencies, Regional Tourism Organisation Australia's Coral Coast and local operators to support Kalbarri's ongoing recovery from the impact of the cyclone.
As stated by Environment Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:
"Tourism businesses in Kalbarri have already been doing it tough during the COVID-19 pandemic and this has been worsened by the devastating impacts of Cyclone Seroja.
"I am very pleased to waive fees for the financial year to provide further relief for local tourism operators that work hard to promote and educate travellers in Kalbarri National Park.
"This financial relief ensures local businesses can continue to focus on delivering top-level tourism offerings for the many Western Australians who are exploring this part of the State.
"I'd encourage travellers to the Mid-West region to show their support for locals by visiting Kalbarri National Park, booking tours and enjoying the food and beverage offerings."
As stated by Tourism Minister David Templeman:
"Tourism operators in the Kalbarri region were devastated by Cyclone Seroja, and the McGowan Government remains committed to working with the community and key stakeholders to ensure everyone involved is well equipped as they continue to welcome back visitors.
"The $250,000 infrastructure funding will support the planned redevelopment of public facilities like amenities, shelters and playgrounds that are critical to a vibrant tourist offering.
"I am pleased to see licence fees for Kalbarri tourism operators waived, which was something operators raised with me when I met with them in June.
"This initiative comes in addition to the Experience Kalbarri at Half Price promotion that I announced in mid-August, which has already had 382 people take up the offer of a half price tour, experience or hire in its first week.
"The majority of businesses in Kalbarri are open and I encourage people to consider this fantastic destination for their next holiday, where they can explore a unique part of WA where our ancient rugged outback meets white sandy beaches."
Environment Minister's office - 6552 5900
