Tourism Council WA has today announced new industry standards for WA national and marine park operators, with support from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) at an industry forum.
The standards would see park tourism operators achieve enhanced Sustainable Tourism Accreditation, publish a thorough assessment of their accessibility, and commit to reducing emissions.
At the Sustainable Tourism Forum today, hosted by Tourism Council WA, Environment Minister Hon Reece Whitby MLA announced DBCA would waive the annual $406 T-Class licence charge, to reduce cost burden on operators and recognise their high standards of sustainable tourism in national parks.
T-Class licences apply to most commercial operations in National Parks including guided walks, vehicle tours, boat tours and charters. Licence conditions ensure environmental, cultural and visitor management objectives are met.
Tourism Council WA CEO Evan Hall said the WA tourism industry wanted to achieve the highest standards in sustainable tourism, especially in WA’s world-class national parks.
“The next generation of visitors to WA are looking for low emission, accessible, and sustainable tourism experiences in our unique natural environment,” Mr Hall said.
“A recent survey commissioned by Tourism Council WA found 81 per cent of tourism businesses reported using measures to assess, mitigate, develop, or promote their sustainability.”
Deputy Premier and Tourism Minister Hon Rita Saffioti MLA said creating a sustainable tourism industry was a key component of the Western Australian Visitor Economy Strategy 2024 (WAVES).
“By slashing costs for our operators, we’re helping to continue drive visitation into our beautiful national parks and conservation reserves, which we know have seen huge visitation post-COVID,” Minister Saffioti said.
“Sustainability of our industry is another key area we’re focusing on to help ensure tourism in Western Australia can thrive long into the future, so we certainly welcome these new industry standards from the Tourism Council of WA.”
Environment, Energy and Climate Action Minister Hon Reece Whitby MLA said tour operators made a valuable contribution to Western Australia’s economy.
“The Cook Government is committed to working with and supporting Tourism Council WA to encourage greater standards in sustainability and accessibility in WA’s tourism industry,” Minister Whitby said.
“We want WA to be a sustainable and accessible destination while supporting our tourism businesses to be the best they can be.”
Tourism Council WA today launched the Tourism Emissions Reduction Program which enables tourism operators to undertake an online emissions assessment and develop a tailored emissions reduction plan which can be published on their website to demonstrate their commitment to improving their sustainability.
“By providing information about the sustainability of their tourism business operations, businesses can appeal to guests who value sustainable practices,” Mr Hall said.
