THE Port of Broome in Western Australia is preparing to undergo an expansion, following the go-ahead from the Australian Government.
Plans are in the works to secure expanded “First Point of Entry” status, according to a statement from Catherine King, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport.
Tourism WA Managing Director Carolyn Turnbull told travelBulletin the benefits of the FPOE would help bolster the local cruise industry.
“If approved, the expansion of border services at the Port of Broome would support the growth of Tourism WA, as this would allow cruise vessels on international itineraries to make Broome their gateway to the state, delivering a welcome boost to tourism and hospitality businesses in the region and allowing more international visitors to explore the dreamlike landscapes of Australia’s ancient North West region,” she said.
“Broome becoming a first point of arrival for cruise vessels will have flow-on opportunities down the coastline, as vessels will have the opportunity to consider Dampier and Geraldton ports of call before arriving in Fremantle.”
Turnbull also noted the significant contribution cruise tourism has had on the Western Australian visitor economy, as it generated $333.5 million last financial year, in addition to more than 1,000 jobs.
Last year, the Government of Western Australia released the WA Cruise Tourism Strategic Plan 2023-2033, which aims to grow the tourism sector through a range of demand, supply and capability building actions.
“A key demand focus identified in the strategy relates to cruise line attraction, to encourage global cruise brands to add WA to their cruise itineraries,” said Turnbull.
“Tourism WA works across Government and with industry stakeholders to promote Western Australia as the western gateway to cruise line companies and we are excited by the opportunity this approval provides.”
