Tourism plea

The Registered Accommodation Providers of the Margaret River Region has written to the Premier calling for a Government education campaign to support accommodation providers and tour operators directly.

Spokeswoman Debbie Noonan said many operators “are considering closing their doors for good”.

The sector was still at risk from Airbnb and the marketing campaign would help channel tourists directly to registered providers, she said.

“We all need every cent we can get, and we believe we will need to discount our prices to re-ignite our businesses,” Mrs Noonan said.

“To then have to pay up to 25 per cent commission to overseas-based online booking platforms may be the final nail in the coffin for many operators.

“Action is required now so that forward bookings can be taken and travel can re-commence as soon as travel restrictions are eased.”