Ningaloo in $110m lift for WA

The state government has hailed the findings of new research from Deloitte Access Economics purporting to show Ningaloo Coast as an economic powerhouse of northern WA.

Ningaloo Coast, which is a designated World Heritage Site, is located in the state’s Gascoyne region and is home to Australia’s largest fringing coral reef.

A popular tourist destination in the state’s north, the report, commissioned by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions and produced by Deloitte Access Economics, estimated that close to $100 million in value was added to WA’s economy in the 2019 financial year as a result of visitation to the site.

That helped sustain 950 full-time jobs in the region and produced more than $170 million in spending.

Commercial fishing, recreation and research contributed a further $10 million in value to WA’s economy, supporting approximately 100 jobs in all.

Commenting on the report’s release this morning, Environment Minister Stephen Dawson acknowledged the economic pain that the likes of Exmouth and Coral Bay had been through due to a loss of international tourists.

“However, this study indicates that under normal conditions, the Ningaloo Coast generates significant economic activity and highlights the region as a natural, cultural and tourism asset to Western Australia,” he said.

“As things slowly return to normal, I encourage Western Australians to explore this spectacular region, which is famous for its fringing coral reef, abundant marine life, and unique experiences such as swimming with humpback whales and whale sharks.

“Having a clear understanding of the way the reef drives the local economy will help us make decisions and guide management for the area, and work with the community, scientists, industry and traditional owners to make it more resilient to any future challenges.”