Tourism Council WA has welcomed the joint Federal-State grant funding announced today for WA tourism businesses hit hard by east coast lockdowns and interstate and international travel restrictions. Grants of $2,000, $5,000 and $10,000 will be available for tourism businesses struggling with more than a 30% downturn.
Today's announcement follows a recent Tourism Council WA industry survey which showed one in three tourism businesses were facing a cash flow crisis.
"Many tourism businesses are struggling due to the international and interstate borders and it is great to see Federal and State Governments working together to support the worst affected businesses," Tourism Council WA CEO Evan Hall said.
"Tourism businesses are bearing the financial cost of borders to protect public health. Today's grant announcement recognises that support is only fair for those businesses doing it tough to protect the community.
"Tourism businesses across WA have seen a collapse of the interstate market due to the east coast lockdowns. Businesses face reducing staff and capacity, and 31 per cent of businesses reported they will run out of cash in six months.
"The impact of the current downturn has affected all sectors of the tourism industry, but it is most keenly felt by tour operators and Perth accommodation.
"As Perth is the primary destination for interstate visitors, it has been the most affected part of WA."
However, the tourism industry warned that further support would be needed if lockdowns and border closures continued.
"Further grants or income support will be needed if lockdowns and border closures stretch on for months," Mr Hall said.
"Tourism businesses will need support until vaccination rates are high enough to allow for domestic travel across Australia by vaccinated residents under the National Plan."
