A surge in local tourism has shown more Western Australians than ever are discovering the beauty on their own doorstep.
There was a 25 per cent jump in the number of WA residents taking day trips around the state last year compared to 2014, and a 10 per cent increase in overnight trips, according to the latest figures from Tourism Research Australia.
The rise of the quokka selfie trend could be behind the boost in popularity of Rottnest Island, which had its highest visitor numbers on record between July and December.
Last year, the island was named by Lonely Planet tourist guide as a top 10 world destination.
“State government investment in metropolitan and regional amenities, infrastructure and events means enjoying what WA has to offer is easier and increasingly attractive,” Tourism minister Kim Hames said.
The year up to September saw the total visitor spend in WA reach $8.9 billion, up from $8.1 billion the previous year.
In 2016, Tourism WA is launching a new tourism campaign aimed at key domestic and international markets.
It will include a bid to encourage visitors to Rottnest Island in the quieter season after Australia Day, and to highlight its unique position as a wedding or honeymoon destination.
