WA Labor to build major Ningaloo Reef tourism hub at Tantabiddi

• Re-elected Cook Labor Government to invest $116 million on new Ningaloo Reef tourism hub and boating facility
• New facility will significantly enhance the experience of tourists visiting Ningaloo Reef
• Cook Government invested $1.3 million to deliver concept designs

One of Western Australia’s biggest tourism drawcards, Ningaloo Reef, will receive a major boost, with WA Labor today committing to build a new tourism hub and boating facility at Tantabiddi.

Tantabiddi is the main on-water access point for tourists and locals who want to experience Western Australia’s world-renowned Ningaloo Reef and Whale Sharks.

The proposed $116 million facility will be a significant asset on the Coral Coast, enriching the experience of visitors and meeting future demand from the recreational and commercial boating sectors.

The commitment follows a $1.3 million investment by the Cook Labor Government to deliver the project planning and concept design.

The concept design included:

• New boat ramps
• Recreational and commercial boat holding jetties
• Commercial boat pens
• Passenger transfer jetty
• Bus pick-up and drop off bays
• Public fishing platform
• 160 new parking bays
• Multipurpose buildings

The new facility was designed in consultation with the Exmouth community to meet user needs and will support marine tourism through significant improvements to access, safety and amenity.

Comments attributed to Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti:

“Ningaloo Reef is one of our State’s top tourism drawcards, but the facilities servicing this iconic destination fall well short of it’s world-standing.

“Tantabiddi is the gateway to the world-renowned Ningaloo Reef and Whale Shark experiences and only WA Labor has a plan to make sure this incredible asset continues to draw visitors from interstate and overseas."

“WA Labor understands how important a thriving tourism industry is for the Exmouth economy and local businesses, and this investment will ensure Ningaloo Reef remains the world-class tourism destination it is.”

Comments attributed to Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:

“Ningaloo Reef is one of the most incredible tourism experiences anywhere in the world, but the local industry has made clear that the facilities aren’t fit for purpose."

“WA Labor is listening to the needs of the tourism industry, which is such a big part of the Exmouth community and local economy."

“These facilities will make sure this world-class experience continues to attract visitors from across the world to Exmouth.”