Regional tourism evaluation to maximise impact in Western Australia
Tourism Western Australia | Independent Evaluation and Governance Model Option | Western Australia, Australia | 2025
Independent statewide evaluation of Regional Tourism Organisations (RTOs) model
Statewide stakeholder engagement across government and industry
Comparative analysis of governance and funding models
Future-focused recommendations for a sustainable tourism ecosystem
The Challenge
Tourism Western Australia engaged Sparrowly Group to independently evaluate the effectiveness, roles and future sustainability of Regional Tourism Organisations (RTOs). The review aimed to assess past performance, clarify roles and responsibilities, and identify governance and funding models that would support a strong, collaborative tourism system.
Key challenges included
Aligning regional priorities with statewide tourism objectives
Clarifying roles between RTOs, state government and local partners
Ensuring equitable resource distribution across diverse regions
Strengthening collaboration without losing regional identity
Our Approach
Our independence and impartiality enabled trusted engagement across the tourism ecosystem.
Our methodology included
Stakeholder engagement with RTO CEOs and Chairs, state agencies, local governments and industry organisations
Statewide survey and consultation to capture diverse perspectives
Analysis of past performance and strategic alignment
Comparative benchmarking across Australia and globally
Development of governance and funding model options
We examined how roles, responsibilities and resources could be aligned to maximise impact while preserving local insights and regional strengths.
Outcomes and Impact
Key Outcomes
Statewide tourism system review and evidence base established
Governance and funding model options developed
Clear roles and responsibilities framework articulated
Change management roadmap created
Economic and Social Impact
Strengthens long-term sustainability of Western Australia’s tourism ecosystem
Supports collaboration between regions and state leadership
Enables more equitable and efficient investment
Positions Tourism Western Australia for coordinated growth and resilience
