Friday, June 27, 2025
Travelers looking to explore Western Australia’s iconic South West region can now enjoy a more seamless journey, as Qantas officially launches its new direct service between Perth and Busselton. This new route, launching today, is set to significantly enhance regional tourism by adding over 15,000 additional seats to the area annually.
The new flights, operated three times a week, are expected to serve as a gateway for both interstate and international travelers seeking to experience the picturesque coastlines, world-class wineries, and gourmet experiences of the Margaret River region. The service is strategically timed to connect with Qantas flights arriving from major Australian cities like Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney, making it more accessible for tourists to discover the beauty of South West WA.
Boosting Regional Tourism and Economic Growth
With an increasing demand for regional travel, this new route is expected to provide a substantial boost to the local economy. Busselton, along with other areas such as Augusta-Margaret River and Bunbury, continues to be a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors annually. According to Tourism WA, the South West welcomed 3.4 million overnight visitors in 2024, underlining the growing appeal of the region.
The new Qantas service is backed by the Cook Government’s $75 million Aviation Recovery Fund, aimed at stimulating regional air travel and supporting tourism across Western Australia. The partnership with Tourism WA also ensures that this new service is promoted through interstate cooperative marketing, driving bookings and increasing awareness of what South West WA has to offer.
As Western Australia’s largest state, with an extensive coastline and stunning landscapes, the state government is dedicated to expanding access to regional areas, making it easier for visitors to enjoy the region’s natural beauty and rich cultural offerings. Minister for Tourism, Reece Whitby, emphasized that this route aligns with the government’s commitment to growing regional tourism and supporting the local economy by boosting visitation to South West WA.
Qantas Service Supports Economic Diversification
The new Perth-Busselton flights are not just a tourism boost; they also play a key role in the Cook Government’s economic diversification strategy. By facilitating easier access to the South West, this service encourages higher out-of-state visitation, helping to diversify the region’s economic base.
South West Minister Don Punch hailed the Qantas service as a vital asset for both tourism operators and local communities. He noted that the new flight route would make travel more convenient for residents and visitors alike, providing frequent travel options between Perth and the South West. This expansion of regional aviation services is part of ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and services that support the economic vitality of the South West region.
A Perfect Time for Pair’d Margaret River
The launch of the new flight service also coincides with the upcoming return of the Pair’d Margaret River Region event in 2025. Scheduled for November 20-23, Pair’d is a four-day celebration of wine, food, and music, offering exclusive experiences at some of the region’s iconic wineries and venues. This event attracts wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and music fans from across Australia and beyond.
Tickets for the 2025 event will go on sale next month, and with the addition of the Perth-Busselton flight, getting to Margaret River for Pair’d has never been easier. Minister Whitby highlighted the timing of the new route as a key factor in increasing visitor numbers to the region, making it the perfect time for travelers to plan their visit to experience this popular event.
A Win for Local Businesses and Visitors
The new Qantas service is a win for both local businesses and the broader community. By bringing thousands of additional visitors to the South West each year, the service will drive more foot traffic to local tourism operators, including wineries, restaurants, and other hospitality businesses. This influx of tourists will not only support the local economy but also create new opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
For visitors, the Perth-Busselton route provides a convenient and direct option for exploring the stunning landscapes and unique attractions of South West WA. Whether it’s relaxing on the beautiful beaches, touring wineries, or enjoying local gourmet experiences, the new flights make it easier than ever to access one of Western Australia’s most cherished regions.
Looking Ahead: More Opportunities for Regional Growth
The Perth-Busselton flight service marks a significant milestone in regional connectivity for Western Australia. This new route, backed by the Cook Government, reflects ongoing efforts to improve access to the state’s top destinations and stimulate regional tourism. As air travel continues to rebound, especially following the challenges of the pandemic, initiatives like these will play a key role in the state’s tourism recovery.
As Reece Whitby concluded, “This new route delivers on our commitment to making intrastate travel seamless, supporting both our tourism businesses and local communities. The Perth-Busselton flights will not only boost tourism numbers but also offer residents more flexible travel options to Perth and beyond.”
The new Qantas service offers a bright outlook for South West WA’s tourism industry and the wider economy, making it an exciting time for both visitors and locals alike to explore all that this beautiful part of Australia has to offer.
