FACTBase Bulletin 69 - Agritourism in Western Australia: better than going abroad post COVID

This FACTBase Bulletin is devoted to understanding how spending in agritourism might aid Perth’s recovery post-COVID-19 by boosting jobs, health and well-being after months of social distancing. In the context of continued restrictions on domestic and international travel, and a sharpened interest in local products and healthy living, Perth’s residents will be keen to reconnect with the rest of the State in a way that aligns with their values regarding food, family, and community.

Key Findings:

• Agritourism provides a critical means for introducing money into the Western Australian economy as COVID-19 restrictions are eased.
• Western Australian industries have a ‘first-mover’ advantage, given the State's low infection and community transmission rates, and quick reopening of the economy.
• Agritourism is associated with industry sectors that have some of the highest multiplier effects in the Australian economy.
• Agritourism is based on an exchange of experiences which can help educate both agritourism providers and visitors, and connect rural and regional economies to communities across the state, nation and abroad.
• Better understanding of these experiences, will allow agritourism providers and authorities to develop and promote regional brands to increase both domestic and international sales.