‘Over-tourism’ a sign of poor investment in regions, says Albany MLA and Shadow Tourism Minister Scott Leary

Albany MLA Scott Leary says reports of overtourism in regional national parks and towns are not signs of success but indicators of “poor planning and chronic underinvestment” in regional tourism. Mr Leary, who serves as the shadow minister for tourism, claims the WA Government’s $36.6 million tourism budget is inadequate, with more than 11 million visitors now travelling to WA every year — an annual increase of 12.5 per cent. He alleged the State Government was continuing a metropolitan-focused tourism approach, while regional hotspots, including the Great Southern, were left to cope with rapidly growing visitor numbers without the infrastructure needed to support them. “Tourism is a Statewide industry but the funding approach is overwhelmingly Perth-centric,” he said. “At the same time, the Government has found $217m for a new racetrack, while regional tourism towns struggle with accommodation shortages, congested roads and stretched facilities. “This lack of planning is playing out across regional WA. “During peak seasons, it is increasingly difficult to find accommodation along the coast — from caravan parks and campgrounds to hotels and higher end stays.” The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions issued a warning to tourists earlier this month that getting to a popular spot was not worth destroying flora and fauna after dozens of cars were seen parked on vegetation at William Bay National Park, known for the popular natural attractions Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks. Mr Leary also acknowledged the effects of the controversial demersal fishing ban, which had already sparked multiple protests across WA, on tourism. “Recreational fishing is a major drawcard for visitors to towns like Exmouth, Shark Bay and Albany,” he said. “Decisions that restrict access without adequate consultation or transition planning hurt local businesses, tourism operators and regional jobs. “Regional WA welcomes visitors and values the benefits tourism brings. “But the Government must do its part by investing in the basics — roads, transport, parking, accommodation, public amenities and local attractions — so tourism growth is sustainable and shared across the State.” A State government spokesperson said growing visitor numbers across WA were a positive indicator of the state’s “strong tourism appeal” and directly supported local businesses, tourism operators and jobs. “Tourism is a major employer in regional WA, from hospitality, accommodation and tours that lead to increased visitation, helping sustain these businesses year-round,” they said. “Perth plays an important role in our tourism sector but as part of our economic diversification strategy, we are encouraging visitors to travel further and stay longer across regional Western Australia. “Tourism is a vital industry for regional communities, which is why we have a series of Destination Management Plans and a 10-year WA tourism strategy in place to guide the sustainable development of this crucial sector.” They also said government agencies like DPIRD and the DBCA were prepared and monitoring key areas during busy seasons, while they experienced high visitor numbers. “It is not unusual for coastal areas across WA to see a seasonal increases in visitors,” they said. “DPIRD has more than 100 fisheries officers across the State and the fisheries resources within DPIRD are the largest of any state in Australia. “DPIRD frequently deploys additional officers from other regions to areas experiencing increased levels of fishing activity to support compliance and community education.”