Tourism Council WA has congratulated the State Government for securing the Perth Bears.
Tourism Council WA CEO Evan Hall said regular NRL matches in Perth would attract interstate fans, particularly from New South Wales and Queensland.
Mr Hall said each interstate tourist spends on average $1,800 per trip in WA, with the NRL matches expected to generate a regular stream of visitors, creating jobs in Perth and in regional destinations.
"AFL matches are a huge drawcard for Victorians, and NRL matches will be a huge drawcard for interstate fans from Queensland and New South Wales," Mr Hall said.
Mr Hall said Western Australia will welcome diehard fans flying direct from Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Canberra, Auckland, and Melbourne.
"Diehard fans from all NRL clubs can travel to Perth for Bears home games on existing direct flights and the Newcastle Knights fans can help underpin a new direct service between Newcastle and Perth," Mr Hall said.
"The best thing about having an NRL club is that after the initial investment, the recurring fixtures will draw in interstate fans year in and year out who will book out hotels, tours, attractions and restaurants."
Mr Hall said as a winter sport, the NRL will bring in fans during the slow tourism periods, when Western Australia has rooms to spare.
