Agritourism operators with ambitions to develop new or unique on-farm accommodation have received a significant boost, with the Cook Government announcing the 17 recipients of its inaugural Unique Tourist Accommodation Proposals (UTAP) program. The program provides co-funding of up to $100,000 for operators to undertake the crucial planning, assessment, and feasibility studies required to get innovative accommodation projects to the development approval stage.
Direct Support for Agritourism and Regional Development
This program is of critical importance to WAAA members as it directly addresses the significant upfront costs and regulatory hurdles associated with developing new tourism infrastructure on agricultural land. The funding is designed to help convert innovative concepts into shovel-ready projects, building a pipeline of new and memorable accommodation options across the state.
The list of successful applicants includes several projects that align closely with the agritourism model, such as eco-chalets, glamping tents, and Aboriginal-led campsites. Among the recipients are:
- Dirk Hartog Glamping: Funding for a masterplan and feasibility study for 12 eco-luxury glamping tents.
- The Dam near William Bay National Park: Support for geotechnical studies, bushfire assessments, and landscape design.
- Murchison River Camp: Funding for assessments to develop 12 glamping tents overlooking the Murchison River.
- Mount Hart Wilderness Lodge: Support for environmental surveys for expanding existing safari tents in the Kimberley.
- Bickley Tree Stay: Assistance with bushfire and wildlife studies for proposed glamping tents in the Perth Hills.
Strengthening WA’s Tourism Offering
The UTAP program is part of the government’s broader economic diversification strategy and aims to enhance WA’s appeal by increasing the density and diversity of visitor accommodation, particularly in high-demand regional areas. It acknowledges that unique, experience-based lodging is a key driver for modern tourists.
Tourism Minister Reece Whitby emphasised the program’s role in building a future pipeline of projects.
“By supporting the early planning stages of these developments, we’re helping to build a pipeline of unique and memorable accommodation that will enhance WA’s tourism offering, attract more visitors, and create jobs in local communities,” he said.
Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson noted the focus on showcasing regional WA.
“This initiative is showcasing the beauty of regional Western Australia and creating pathways to promote our most spectacular locations that are found off the beaten track,” Mr Dawson stated.
This program provides a clear pathway for operators to de-risk the initial, and often most challenging, phase of accommodation development, bringing their unique agritourism visions closer to reality.
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