Funding scheme announced to develop Western Australia tourism accommodation

A new funding scheme supported by the Western Australian Government - the Unique Tourist Accommodation Proposals (UTAP) program - is inviting tourism operators and developers to apply for financial support of up to $100,000 to undertake studies and planning assessments to assist with the development of unique accommodation.

The program forms part of the WA Government's $17.7 million National Park Tourism Experiences Development (NPTED) Program.

The program aims to help developments get underway and encourage a pipeline of new accommodation options around Western Australia - specifically focusing on unique offerings that are defined by a distinctive design, location or experience. 

The funding will support tourism developers and operators to undertake feasibility studies and assessments, including engaging with Traditional Owners and cultural heritage assessments, site surveys, fauna and flora surveys, coastal assessments and master planning.

NPTED aims to support the development of culturally and environmentally sensitive tourist accommodation in unique areas, boost visitor numbers in commercial short-stay accommodation, and grow the density and diversity of tourism experiences across Western Australia.

WA Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti noted "Tourism in Western Australia continues to grow, as we hit almost $18 billion in visitor spend in the year to September 2024 and keep attracting millions of visitors.

"Our incredibly unique landscapes and experiences right up and down the entire coastline really put us on the global map and have made us a highly sought after destination.

"We want to capitalise on these advantages, which is why we're inviting tourism operators and developers to consider how they can develop unique accommodation across WA, which will further support the tourism industry and our efforts to diversify our economy and create local jobs."

WA Environment Minister Reece Whitby added "Developing, delivering and promoting experiences that showcase what makes Western Australia special are core to the growth and sustainability of our tourism sector.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for our tourism industry and developers to investigate opportunities to provide bespoke and unique accommodation to further bolster our global reputation as a must-visit destination."

Applications for the funding program will be open for a 12-week period, closing on 2nd May 2025.

For more information, including the UTAP guidelines, evaluation process and eligibility criteria, visit: www.tourism.wa.gov.au

Image. Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef credit: Tourism WA