Tourism Council WA has welcomed today's announcement by the State Government of the $1.45million Cyclone Narelle Tourism Business Support Package, which includes payments for eligible cyclone-affected accredited tourism businesses.
As the peak industry association, Tourism Council WA has been advocating for immediate relief for accredited tourism businesses to be able to retain staff and continue operating until bookings and cash flow recover.
"Since Cyclone Narelle, tourism businesses across the Coral Coast region have experienced significant disruption - whether that be property damage, road and airport closures, suspension of trade or lost bookings," said Tourism Council WA CEO Evan Hall.
"Tourism businesses need to recover bookings and visitors for this peak season to support regional economies and jobs in cyclone-affected towns.
"Through industry consultation, Tourism Council WA has been actively pursuing the delivery of short-term assistance to help these businesses survive.
"We thank the Tourism Minister and State Government for this prompt response to the immediate needs of the industry."
Accredited tourism businesses within several product categories - including tours, experiences, attractions and accommodation - which meet eligibility criteria will receive up to $10,000 for businesses employing under four workers, and up to $20,000 for businesses employing four or more staff. The $1.45million package also includes a consumer incentive voucher program offering visitors 50 per cent off select tours and experiences, accompanied by supporting marketing campaigns.
"Many tourism businesses have suffered financial losses well in excessive of the support payment amounts. However, this immediate financial assistance will help cover costs and retain the staff needed to operate this season and provide services for guest," Mr Hall said.
"Encouraging visitors back into the region through vouchers will help businesses recover by doing what they do best - offering world-class tourism experiences.
"We look forward to continuing to work with the Tourism Minister to support businesses recover amid the ongoing impact of the cyclone and rising fuel costs on bookings across regional WA."
