Described as “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world” by Sir David Attenborough, Horizontal Falls is an iconic WA tourism attraction.

Traversing Horizontal Falls has become a bucket-list experience for many domestic and international tourists.

It draws thousands of visitors to the Kimberley region each year with adventure eco-tourism now also one of the fastest growing tourism sectors.

The Cook Labor Government’s decision to close access to the falls in 2028 is an overreaction that will result in the loss of 58 jobs and $15 million per year for the Broome economy.

It disregards the benefits of eco-tourism and the work already being done to improve and implement better environmental and safety standards.

Allowing access to this significant natural wonder while maintaining cultural and environmental conservation can, and has been, done effectively for many years.

The WA Liberals understand the need to constantly review and improve these practices and remain committed to ensuring access to this natural wonder is managed safely in a culturally and environmentally appropriate way.

Our national parks belong to everyone and should not be locked up.

The WA Liberals will ensure Horizontal Falls stays open safety, in line with the significant support to overturn Labor’s decision.  

Allowing Horizontal Falls to stay open will give visitors a better appreciation and understanding of our environment while also ensuring the ongoing viability of this key tourism sector.  

Every Western Australian should be able to access the wonders of their own state.

Only a WA Liberal Government will ensure it.

The WA Liberals understand the importance of Horizontal Falls  as a once-in-a-lifetime tourism experience for both domestic and international visitors, which are world-renowned for their natural beauty.

The Cook Labor Government’s decision to close access through this iconic tourism attraction is a short-sighted, knee-jerk reaction.

It will have a monumental impact on both the local economy and the broader Western Australian tourism industry.

Attraction-based tourism in regional WA promotes more than just an experience – it promotes the entire region, local businesses and experiences, and demonstrates the support for tourism across our state.

The importance of safe and sustainable access to our state’s wealth of natural wonders and the value of the Western Australian tourism industry cannot be overstated.

Closing this attraction to visitors is neither the best nor the only way forward.

A WA Liberal Government will reverse the decision to close the Horizontal Falls crossing access ensuring all visitors can continue to experience this natural wonder.

We will work with local stakeholders to regularly update cultural, environmental, and tourism management practices to ensure this remarkable natural phenomenon remains open for all to safely enjoy.

Western Australians who rely on natural tourist attractions deserve a government that will prioritise their livelihoods and jobs, and acknowledge their long-term work to maintain sustainable tourism.

Only the WA Liberal Party is committed to maintaining WA’s diverse tourism industry and ongoing access at Horizontal Falls.