- Funding scheme announced to help develop unique WA tourism accommodation
- Eligible operators can apply for up to $100,000 to support preliminary studies
- Supported by the Western Australian Government
Western Australia is a step closer to welcoming more diverse tourism accommodation, with the announcement of a new funding program today.
Through the Unique Tourist Accommodation Proposals (UTAP) program, tourism operators and developers are invited to apply for financial support of up to $100,000 to undertake studies and planning assessments to assist with the development of unique accommodation.
Supported by the WA Government, the program will 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.
The program forms part of the WA Government's $17.7 million National Park Tourism Experiences Development (NPTED) Program.
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.
Applications for the funding program will be open for a 12-week period, closing on 2 May 2025.
For more information, including the UTAP guidelines, evaluation process and eligibility criteria, visit: www.tourism.wa.gov.au
As stated by Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti:
"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."
As stated by Environment Minister Reece Whitby:
"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."
