Social and economic value of protected areas in Western Australia

From iconic national parks and marine reserves to remote wilderness areas, Western Australia’s protected areas are a defining part of the state’s identity and lifestyle. They support tourism, conservation, recreation and cultural connection, while helping sustain regional communities across Western Australia.

This research, commissioned by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), provides the first comprehensive assessment of the value generated by protected areas across the state. It examines the economic activity supported through tourism and park management, the social value Western Australians place on protected areas, the contribution of Aboriginal tourism and land management, and the ecosystem services delivered through conservation of natural assets.

In 2023–24, Western Australia’s protected areas contributed $2.4 billion in value added to the state economy and supported more than 20,000 full-time equivalent jobs. They attracted 24 million visits and generated substantial benefits for regional communities through visitor spending and tourism activity.

Beyond their economic contribution, protected areas are a significant social asset. The report estimates their social asset value at $26.6 billion over a 30-year period, reflecting the value people derive from experiencing these places and the importance they place on their continued existence, even if they do not visit them directly. Protected areas also support Aboriginal cultural connection, biodiversity conservation and ecosystem services that provide benefits for current and future generations.

Key findings:

• Western Australia's protected areas contributed $2.4 billion in value added to the state economy and supported more than 20,000 FTE jobs in 2023–24.
• Protected areas attracted 24 million visits across more than 400 parks and reserves during 2023–24.
• Tourism associated with protected areas generated $662 million in value added and supported more than 5,600 FTE jobs from interstate and international visitors.
• Travel by Western Australians to protected areas contributed $1.4 billion in economic activity and supported 12,600 FTE jobs, helping diversify regional economies.
• The total social asset value of Western Australia's protected areas is estimated at $26.6 billion in present value terms over 30 years.
• Aboriginal tourism operators contributed $55.1 million to Western Australia's GSP and supported 514 FTE jobs in 2023–24.
• A selection of DBCA-managed marine ecosystems is estimated to provide $1.8 billion in carbon sequestration value over 20 years.