Tourism Council WA has welcomed today’s announcement of Hon Rita Saffioti MLA as the new Tourism Minister.
Tourism Council WA CEO Evan Hall said tourism was a great fit with the transport portfolio, with a high degree of connection between the two portfolios.
“The appointment of a senior Minister to the tourism portfolio and the alignment with the transport portfolio is welcome as Western Australia continues to rebuild its visitor economy,” Mr Hall said.
“The fact that tourism has stayed at the Deputy Premier level shows the State Government’s commitment to the post-COVID tourism recovery, diversifying our State economy and generating new jobs through tourism growth.
“There are particular synergies between the tourism and transport portfolios when it comes to aviation development, regional transport and event day transport, and we look forward to working with Minister Saffioti on these matters and other issues affecting the tourism industry.”
Mr Hall thanked former Deputy Premier and Tourism Minister, now Premier, Hon Roger Cook MLA for his critical role in starting WA’s tourism recovery.
“During his time as Tourism Minister, the now Premier made critical inroads for the WA tourism recovery, such as through investing in major events to attract out of state visitors, and supported the industry, such as with prompt action to support businesses affected by the Kimberley floods,” Mr Hall said.
