CCIWA welcomes the State Government’s announcement of a $185m package to re-connect WA with the international market for workers, tourists and students.

The announcement follows CCIWA’s calls to prioritise the rebuilding of these markets after prolonged disruption, leveraging our stable economy and success in safely managing COVID-19. It is the booster our economy needs, especially for industries that have found the going particularly tough through this pandemic.

The re-establishment of tourism flight routes and funds to attract and incentivise tourists, international students and skilled workers will play a role in rebuilding these important markets for our State. We also welcome the extra funding to attract business events. This is a lucrative market where we need to expand our efforts, noting there is often a flow-on impact to business investment as it provides an opportunity to showcase our State.

An important component will be setting a date to re-open our borders, in line with the Government’s transition plan. Many international travelers will delay or make other plans in the absence of a clear date.

CCIWA also supports an increase in Western Australia’s overseas trade presence, as outlined in our Pre-Budget Submission. There would also be significant benefits from implementing an international deal book, marketing the many opportunities for overseas investors to invest in the WA economy.