Media Release | 14 January 2026
Scott Leary MLA
Shadow Minister for Tourism
Shadow Minister for Tourism, Scott Leary MLA, says growing pressure on popular regional destinations is clear evidence that the Cook Labor Government is failing to invest properly in regional tourism.
“Reports of so-called ‘overtourism’ in regional WA are not a sign of success — they are a sign of poor planning and chronic underinvestment,” Mr Leary said.
“The Government continues to focus its tourism effort almost entirely on Perth, while the South West, North West, Coral Coast and Golden Outback are left to cope with growing visitor numbers without the infrastructure or support they need.”
Mr Leary said the State Budget allocation of $36.6 million for tourism was inadequate given the scale of the industry and skewed heavily toward major events in the capital.
“Tourism is a statewide industry, but the funding approach is overwhelmingly Perth centric,” he said.
“At the same time, the Government has found $217 million for a new racetrack, while regional tourism towns struggle with accommodation shortages, congested roads and stretched facilities.”
More than 11 million visitors travel to Western Australia each year, and Mr Leary said government investment has failed to keep pace with population growth, immigration and rising tourism demand.
“This lack of planning is playing out across regional WA,” he said.
“During peak seasons it is increasingly difficult to find accommodation along the coast — from caravan parks and campgrounds to hotels and higher-end stays.”
Mr Leary also criticised decisions that undermine regional tourism markets without proper consideration of flow-on impacts.
“Recreational fishing is a major drawcard for visitors in 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.”
With tourism visitation up by 12.5 per cent over the past year and occupancy rates averaging between 70 and almost 90 per cent, Mr Leary said the need for a coordinated regional tourism strategy was urgent.
“Regional WA welcomes visitors and values the benefits tourism brings,” he said.
“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.”
ENDS
