Five-star vote of confidence for Margaret River and WA tourism

  • Margaret River set for first five-star hotel, demonstrating strong future for WA tourism
  • The Westin Margaret River Resort & Spa project to create about 300 jobs during construction; approximately 100 ongoing jobs once open in 2023
  • WA companies Saracen Properties, Security Capital Australia and Christou Design Group join with Marriott International for landmark project
  • Prior to COVID-19, McGowan Government had overseen record numbers for WA tourism 
  • Margaret River’s enduring popularity as a world-class destination has been enhanced with luxury hotel chain Marriott International announcing it will open the region’s first five-star resort in the Western Australian tourism hotspot.

    The announcement of the Westin Margaret River Resort & Spa provides a strong vote of confidence for WA tourism following the devastating impacts of COVID-19.

    Marriott International is the world’s largest hospitality company, and its commitment to WA tourism despite the current environment demonstrates important, long-term confidence in the State.

    Before the impact of COVID-19, the McGowan Government had overseen the best tourism numbers the State has ever recorded – with the industry valued at $11 billion at the last reporting period.

    The Westin Margaret River Resort & Spa will be located on the southern headland of Gnarabup Beach, including 120 guest rooms, on-site dining venues, and meeting and event space.

    The project is expected to create more than 300 jobs during construction, with more than 100 ongoing local jobs to be supported once it opens its doors in mid-2023.

    The hotel is being designed by WA architect Christou Design Group, with WA companies Saracen Properties and Security Capital Australia carrying out the joint development of the project.

    It will feature views over the Indian Ocean, access to the Cape to Cape and other local attractions, and its on-site dining options will support local producers by sourcing local produce from around the region.

    For artists’ impressions of the resort, visit https://we.tl/t-xjmcZWWX7J

    As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:

    “This announcement is an extremely positive sign for WA tourism.

    “The project will create construction jobs during the build, it will also support ongoing jobs once the resort is in operation. Having a first five-star resort in Margaret River will attract more visitors to the South-West and will boost the local economy.

    “While COVID-19 has had serious impacts on tourism right around the world and here in WA, this project demonstrates long-term confidence in Margaret River and Western Australia as world-class destinations.

    “My Government has presided over record growth in visitor numbers and spend in recent years, and we are delighted Marriott International and the WA companies involved are committed to Western Australia.”

    As stated by Tourism Minister Paul Papalia:

    “Times are exceptionally tough for the State’s tourism operators at the moment, but this announcement provides an important indicator that the long-term future of WA tourism is bright.

    “Marriott is one of the world’s most prestigious hotel brands and the new luxury resort will add yet another attraction to the already world-class Margaret River region.

    “The McGowan Government has presided over record high tourism numbers in recent years, and we look forward to continuing to support and develop the industry to ensure it bounces back stronger than ever in coming years.”

    /Public Release. View in full here.