Tourism and Hospitality
The South West is Western Australia’s most visited regional tourism destination, recognised for its internationally significant natural assets, Mediterranean climate and diverse year-round experiences.
The South West is one of only two globally recognised biodiversity hotspots in Australia, placing it within an elite group of just 36 worldwide.
Located two to three hours south of Perth and supported by expanding interstate air services through Busselton Margaret River Airport, the region attracts more than 2.6 million domestic visitors annually across three distinct tourism sub-regions: Bunbury Geographe, the Margaret River Region and the Southern Forests and Valleys.
Tourism in the South West builds on strong international brand recognition, premium food and wine experiences and a growing calendar of major events. Continued investment in visitor infrastructure, unique accommodation, trails and destination development is strengthening the region’s capacity for high-yield, year-round visitation and long-term industry growth.
For more information about Tourism investment in the South West and beyond, visit Tourism WA.
Tourism and Hospitality Fast Facts
- The South West generates more than $1.6 billion in tourism output.
- Tourism directly supports 6,637 jobs, or 8.3% of South West employment, making it a major employer across the region.
- Domestic visitors spent an estimated $2.3 billion in the South West, reinforcing tourism's contribution to local business and communities.
