| CLIA hails Broome Port promise

A new passenger terminal at WA’s Broome Port (pictured) would “help unlock enormous tourism opportunities” for the state if it goes ahead, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).

The WA Labor Government, which is on track to retain power at the state election in Mar, announced it would commit $500,000 to planning the new purpose-built facility if reelected.

“CLIA and our cruise lines have been championing Broome as an international gateway for some time, working closely with State and Commonwealth governments to unlock the destination’s full potential,” CLIA MD in Australasia Joel Katz told CW.

“The Western Australian Government’s commitment to a business case for a new Broome terminal is an important step towards making the port a world-class cruise destination.”

Katz believes dedicated terminal facilities will also allow Commonwealth agencies to process international visitors on their first arrival into Australia.

“This means Broome can become a first port of call for international ships, opening up a world of new possibilities for international cruising in Western Australia,” he explained.

Tourism Council WA CEO Evan Hall also welcomed the proposal for a purpose-built passenger terminal, saying it “will enhance the overall visitor experience from arrival in Broome, but also increase capacity and bring additional visitors who can have a better experience”.

He added, “Western Australia has the longest and greatest coastline in Australia, and an upgraded facility would see marine and nature-based tourism boom in [the state]”.

Cruise ship pax disembarking in Broome would be able to travel down the WA coast, from Exmouth to Geraldton south to Fremantle and Margaret River.

According to CLIA, the value of cruise tourism to WA grew by more than 15% in 2023-24 to reach a record $384.9 million. JM