Western Australia’s most iconic tourism destination, Wadjemup / Rottnest Island will receive $150 million for upgrades in the island’s largest government investment in history.

Almost 800,000 people visited Rottnest Island by ferry alone in 2023. So, there’s no question that everyone’s favourite turquoise water paradise is only going to become more popular in the coming years.

$150 million in government investment

With the increase in popularity and visitation are concerns about how much it costs to visit. As part of the 2024-25 State Budget, the WA Government is allocating their latest investments “to ensure the island paradise continues to meet visitor expectations and future operational needs”.

The Rottnest Island upgrades will focus on staff accommodation, barge operations, wastewater infrastructure, and airport improvements.

“A vital part of the success of any tourism destination are the businesses that operate around it,” Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti said.

$98.5 million of the investment will go towards the planning and development of new staff accommodation for island businesses. This will help businesses to attract staff, provide better visitor services, and operate outside ferry timetables.

“Of course, we’re also focused on improving operations to provide that seamless experience for visitors, which is why we’re allocating nearly $32m to relocate barge and freight operations from the Main Jetty to South Thomson Bay,” she said.

A further $15.8 million will be allocated to upgrading wastewater infrastructure across the island. While the remaining $4.3 million will be spent resurfacing the runway and installing perimeter fencing at Rottnest Airport.

This investment is in addition to existing funding of $168.7 million for infrastructure improvements across the island, including electricity, water, and tourism facilities. 

“Rottnest Island is a globally recognised tourism destination for WA. To continue meeting the increasing popularity of the island, it’s essential we invest in infrastructure to support island operations and safety.”