The Government of Western Australia has announced an increase of $31 million in funding for tourism events, as part of its 2022-23 State Budget.

This boost in funding is in addition to the $15 million Reconnect WA package announced in December 2021, and includes $20 million for a new Major Events Fund, of which $5 million has been allocated for business events.

The much needed extra funding comes at a critical time for WA’s business events industry, which is positioned to welcome a significant period of growth and recovery following the reopening of the state’s border and pent-up demand for business event travel.

Business Events Perth Chair Bradley Woods said the additional funding recognised the important role that business events played in strengthening and diversifying the State’s economy, and the support that was needed to revive the sector after a significant disruption.

“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,” Woods said.

Tourism Minister Roger Cook said the increased funding would maximise opportunities for the State, securing lucrative business events not just for their tourism impact, but also as a platform for economic diversification, presenting an opportunity to promote Western Australian expertise to the world.

“This is the next stage in turbo-charging WA’s economic transition after the successful management of COVID-19 for more than two years,” Cook said.

“Business events bring business travellers to the State, promoting our diverse priority sectors and generating direct economic return for local businesses.

“A revived program of business events will help to create an economic legacy beyond the value of initial tourism expenditure – helping us build towards a bigger, better Western Australia.”