❓ Mr Eatts questions the government on the potential economic impact of Perth Wildlife Encounters ceasing operations and the government's response. The government acknowledges the business's role in tourism and outlines inter-agency coordination and support efforts.

I refer to the regional economic impact of Perth Wildlife Encounters in Rockingham, and I ask:(a) Has the Government assessed the regional economic impact should Perth Wildlife Encounters cease or significantly reduce operations;(b) What is the estimated direct and indirect employment associated with the business;(c) Has any contingency planning been undertaken to mitigate regional tourism disruption in the event of operator insolvency;(d) What cross-agency coordination has occurred in response to the issues raised by Perth Wildlife Encounter; and(e) Has the Government considered convening an interdepartmental response to address the operator’s financial and operational concerns?

(a-e) While Tourism Western Australia (TWA) does not assess the economic contribution of individual operators, it is noted that Perth Wildlife Encounters plays a role in delivering tourism outcomes for Western Australia. TWA has engaged with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) to ensure coordinated information sharing, support process and progress outcomes, and continues to participate in bimonthly stakeholder meetings, convened by DBCA, with Perth Wildlife Encounters (first established in 2023). TWA has assisted Perth Wildlife Encounters with its efforts to ensure ongoing sustainability.