Western Australia is seeking to diversify its accommodation offering, with a new initiative from the WA Government and Tourism WA aiming to bring fresh product to the state’s national parks.

A new funding program is offering tourism operators and developers up to $100,000 in financial support as part of the Unique Tourist Accommodation Proposals UTAP) initiative which is backed by the state government’s $17.7 million National Parks Tourism Experiences Development (NPTED) Program.

“The program will help developments get underway and encourage a pipeline of new accommodation options around Western Australia — specifically focusing on unique offerings that are defined by a distinctive design, location or experience,” a statement said.

“The funding will support tourism developers and operators to undertake feasibility studies and assessments, including engaging with Traditional Owners and cultural heritage assessments, site surveys, fauna and flora surveys, coastal assessments and master planning.”

As part of this initiative, Tourism WA is highlighting development opportunities for boutique co-accommodation on Bunuba Country in the West Kimberley in collaboration with the Bunuba Dawangarri Aboriginal Corporation. These culturally significant sites include Bandilngan (Windjana Gorge), Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek), and Darrambal (Lennard Gorge).

“These locations are rich in cultural significance and set in stunning landscapes, offering investors the unique opportunity to develop a sustainable tourism product in one of Australia’s most iconic wilderness destinations, the Kimberley,” Tourism WA said.

The announcement comes as Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group confirmed it would open a luxury eco-lodge in the Purnululu National Park in the East Kimberley by 2027.

It represents a huge win for Tourism WA which has been working hard behind the scenes to draw investment to the state.