• Proposal launched to secure a long-term charter coach operator in Albany and across the Great Southern
• $1 million Cook Labor Government contribution available to support establishment of regional service
• Proposal aims to strengthen regional tourism while creating opportunities for local businesses and jobs across the Great Southern as part of Cook Labor Government's priorities

The Cook Labor Government is supporting a bid to secure a long-term charter coach operator for Albany to address a critical gap in transport services across the Great Southern and support continued growth of tourism in the region.

The initiative is backed by a $1 million contribution from the Cook Labor Government to support cruise tourism, access to regional events, and community connectivity across the Great Southern.

Funded through Royalties for Regions, the $1 million contribution will be paid over an 18-month milestone schedule to support the successful operator's establishment and long-term viability in the region.

The successful proponent will be required to establish a regional base in Albany and deliver services that support both Albany and the wider region, including Esperance.

The Request for Proposal will be available through Tenders WA, with a 10-week submission period to allow operators sufficient time to develop detailed proposals.

This initiative will strengthen the Great Southern's visitor economy while supporting regional economic diversification, creating local jobs, and driving business growth through improved transport access.

Tourism is the State's fifth-largest employer, with more than two in five tourism jobs based in the regions where visitors spent $6.2 billion across regional destinations in the year to March 2026.

Find out more at: tenders.wa.gov.au

Comments attributed to Premier and Tourism, Trade and Investment Minister Roger Cook:

"Albany and the broader Great Southern region are important tourism destinations, and reliable transport services are essential to supporting visitors, local businesses, and regional communities.

"This investment is about securing a long-term solution that supports cruise tourism, regional events, and broader economic activity across the region.

"We want to attract a high-quality operator that can establish a strong local presence and deliver sustainable services for years to come.

"This initiative supports economic diversification while backing the tourism sector, local jobs, and businesses throughout Albany and the Great Southern."

Comments attributed to Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson:

"The Great Southern is renowned for its natural beauty and rich history. By investing in this service, the Cook Labor Government is making it easier for locals and visitors alike to experience everything the region has to offer.

"Supporting a reliable transport service between Albany and communities across the region will improve connectivity and support local businesses and local jobs."

Comments attributed to Great Southern Minister Reece Whitby:

"Improved transport means more visitors and more jobs for the Great Southern, and this investment will enhance the region's ability to attract tourists and give local businesses more opportunities to grow.

"The Cook Labor Government want people coming to the Great Southern to be able to see more, do more, and stay longer, and a reliable charter coach service will help connect Albany and communities across the region."

Comments attributed to Samantha Rowe MLC:

"The Cook Labor Government is focussed on diversifying WA's economy by growing critical sectors such as tourism all across the State.

"Connecting visitors to the Great Southern's local businesses and attractions is a major boost for local jobs and the region's tourism industry as a whole."