Perth’s business events community has welcomed the decision to reopen Western Australia’s (WA) border to ‘very low risk’ areas this month.
Premier Mark McGowan confirmed the state will move to a “controlled interstate border regime” from 14 November 2020, which allows visitors from Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory to enter Western Australia without the need to self-quarantine.
Travellers from New South Wales and Victoria will be allowed to enter Western Australia but will have to isolate for 14 days in a suitable location on arrival.
Following the announcement, Business Events Perth chief executive Gareth Martin welcomed the news, saying it would provide a boost of confidence for event organisers.
“This is wonderful news and offers certainty to our clients and delegates who are planning on eventing in Western Australia,” he said.
“We can’t wait to welcome back our interstate friends to show them the new and amazing venues and experiences Western Australia has on offer.”
Today, in line with the latest advice from the Chief Health Officer, I can announce that WA will soon cautiously transition towards a controlled interstate border.
Pending ongoing health advice and case numbers interstate, this will take effect on Saturday 14 November. pic.twitter.com/3s3iGIwt7V
— Mark McGowan (@MarkMcGowanMP) October 30, 2020
Since the launch of the ‘Event Here Now’ local campaign in August, Western Australia has hosted more than 50 business events, bringing together more than 18,000 West Australians.
Martin said a further 47 state-based events are currently in the works.
“Business events are a key economic driver to the local economy and delegates from ‘very low risk areas’ are now able to plan their travel to Western Australia with certainty, which will be critical to the local industry’s recovery and Western Australia’s broader economic recovery,” he said.
“Business events are a front door for investment and trade and are a forum to collaborate and exchange knowledge and showcase Western Australia’s research and professional expertise and capacity, and we hope with the best health advice, Victoria and New South Wales visitors are not far behind.”
A number of new venues and experiences are also set to attract visitors as borders reopen, including Perth’s first permanent floating venue The Raft, a new zipline and bridge climb on Matagarup Bridge, the upcoming WA Museum Boola Bardip and a new five-star resort, Samphire Rottnest.
More reading
Updated: State-by-state guide to current event restrictions
New rules for corporate events and gatherings in NSW
Opinion: Events can’t restart with borders closed
