Cutting red tape to make it easier to open and run an eco or nature-based tourism business is the next focus of the Liberal National Government's 90-day regulatory mapping project.
Premier and Tourism Minister Colin Barnett said tourism generated more than 97,000 jobs and was a key economic driver in Western Australia, injecting about $10 billion a year into the local economy.
"The 90-day regulatory mapping projects are part of the Government's strategy to achieve rapid, meaningful reforms to support business and job creation," Mr Barnett said.
"By focusing on eco and nature-based tourism businesses, the Government is supporting one of the State's potential growth sectors."
Finance Minister Sean L'Estrange said excessive red tape added unnecessary costs and could delay business start-ups and expansion.
"This 90-day eco and nature-based tourism project will identify areas where the Government can cut red tape and recommend fast, practical and implementable reform recommendations to benefit eco and nature-based tourism operators across the State," Mr L'Estrange said.
"Without pre-empting what the project will find, we will be considering the licencing and approvals processes for eco and nature-based tourism operators, as well as looking at current barriers to the diversification of land use in Western Australia, which may limit opportunities for tour operators to access some of our State's spectacular landscapes and wildlife."
Fact File
Eco and nature-based tourism operators can contribute ideas to reduce regulatory burden by participating in the survey on the Department of Finance website here The project involves input from a range of government agencies responsible for regulating eco and nature-based tourism businesses, including relevant Commonwealth agencies, peak industry bodies and eco and nature-based tourism businesses
Premier and Tourism Minister's office - 6552 5000
Finance Minister's office - 6552 6900
