- Fremantle to host 2025 Australian Cruise Association Conference
- Event will bring more than 150 cruise industry leaders and representatives to WA and highlight cruise tourism opportunities
- Supported by the Western Australian Government
Western Australia has been confirmed as the host of the Australian Cruise Association (ACA) Conference and Annual General Meeting in 2025, which will attract more than 150 industry leaders.
The annual conference will bring together some of Australia's top industry representatives to discuss the sector and learn more about WA's various onshore experiences and port capabilities, running from 3-5 September 2025.
The conference's functions and events are complemented by a range of other touring activities showcasing Fremantle, the iconic Rottnest Island and other Perth destinations.
The announcement comes off the back of the WA Cruise Exchange in July this year, which was attended by more than two dozen industry leaders from 14 leading cruise lines, shining a spotlight on WA's cruise tourism sector.
Cruise ships continue to form an important part of Western Australia's tourism industry and economic diversification agenda, with a record $333.5 million generated in economic impact for the State in 2022-23, which created more than 1,000 local jobs.
Fremantle, as the busiest port in the State, welcomed over 72,000 passengers and 9,000 crew members across 33 visits in that financial year.
The Fremantle Passenger Terminal will continue to successfully service the burgeoning cruise industry with increased passenger arrivals and larger ship visits following the $35.5 million investment in wharf works at Fremantle Port, and major fender upgrades at the passenger terminal announced as part of the 2024-25 State Budget.
The Budget also allocated $1 million to boost Western Australia's cruise tourism program and help to deliver the WA Cruise Tourism Strategic Plan 2023-2033, in recognition of the important role it plays for the State.
For more information about the ACA Conference, visit: https://www.australiancruiseassociation.com/
As stated by Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti:
"The cruise tourism industry generates hundreds of millions of dollars for Western Australia each year and creates hundreds of local jobs.
"Hosting this prestigious conference is another fantastic opportunity to showcase our State and cruise industry to key leaders from across the country and keep building on what we're achieving.
"We really look forward to welcoming delegates to Fremantle next year and discussing current and future opportunities within the sector, while of course showcasing our world-class cruise and broader tourism offerings."
As stated by Ports Minister David Michael:
"Fremantle has had a bumper couple of years welcoming a combined 129,000 passengers from 64 cruise ships.
"Our recent investment in wharf works and fender upgrades at the Fremantle Passenger Terminal, worth $35.5 million, will ensure we can keep servicing this growing industry."
As stated by Fremantle MLA Simone McGurk:
"The port precinct is the beating heart of Fremantle, so I can't think of a better place to be hosting the 2025 Australian Cruise Association Conference.
"Cruise ships and the tens of thousands of tourists they bring each year add so much vibrancy and atmosphere to our community, so I'm always supportive of any efforts to keep boosting the cruise sector and showcasing Fremantle as a must-stop destination."
