THE WA tourism industry has welcomed the new tourism-focused division of the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) and its focus on nature-based tourism.

Tourism Council WA chief executive officer Evan Hall said it was critical new attractions and experiences were created for people from around the world to enjoy the state’s amazing natural environment.

“Nature-based experiences drive visitors and visitor dollars to Western Australia, particularly into regional WA, and is the main reason tourists come to Western Australia for a holiday,” Mr Hall said.

Mr Hall said visiting national parks, marine parks and botanical gardens was the third most popular leisure activity for visitors to WA after dining out and shopping.

“Sustainable tourism businesses not only create jobs but ensure minimal environmental visitor impact and help protect and promote our national and marine parks,” Mr Hall said.

“Sustainable tourism also creates revenue for conservation and education, as well as tourism jobs in our regional towns.

“Tourism Council WA particularly welcomes the focus on new commercial tourism projects, as tourism businesses want to invest in nature-based experiences for national park visitors.”

Mr Hall said adequate public investment in existing attractions was critical to ensure they remained open and accessible to Western Australians and guests from around the world.

“Visitors don’t just want to stop and stare from lookouts, they want to engage with nature and have adventurous experiences, particularly in natural environments that are unique to Western Australia,” Mr Hall said.

“National parks are public land and should be open and accessible for everyone into the future.

“Tourism Council WA calls on DBCA to maintain all current visitor access and experiences across our wonderful national and marine parks.’’

DBCA’s new nature-based tourism division will be charged with driving new commercial tourism projects in national parks.

It will also support the department’s industry relationship management, tourism operator licensing, and new tourism opportunity development.

To support the division, DBCA will also establish a nature-based tourism industry reference group, with representatives from Tourism Council WA, tourism operators and the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation (JTSI).

Recruitment is already underway for an executive director and other key positions at the new tourism division.