The government of Western Australia has included in its 2022-23 state budget, an increase of AUD31 million in funding for tourism events. This along with AUD20 million for a new Major Events Fund, of which AUD5 million has been allocated for the hosting of business events.

This funding is in addition to the AUD15 million, Reconnect WA package, announced in December of 2021.

The boost in funding comes at a pivotal time for Western Australia’s business events industry, which is poised to experience a significant period of growth and recovery, following the reopening of Western Australia’s border.

“The impact of covid-19 on the business events industry has resulted in a massive hit, in terms of real losses and future business confidence, so this funding boost is well timed as we continue our efforts to secure lucrative business events to re-energise and rebuild the many venues and small businesses who are, still struggling two years into this pandemic,” said Mr. Bradley Woods, chair of Business Events Perth.

Whilst Western Australia’s tourism minister Mr. Roger Cook reiterated that: the increased funding would maximise opportunities for the state in securing lucrative business events for the state’s economy and tourism sector.

Mr. Cook said: “This is the next stage in turbo-charging Western Australia’s economic transition after the successful management of covid-19 for more than two years.”

He further mentioned a revived program of business events will, help Western Australia, create an economic legacy beyond the value of initial tourism expenditure.