4.4 Transformative economic infrastructure

Noted as a leading priority by all South West councils, Busselton Margaret River Airport requires a fit-for-purpose terminal building that reflects the region’s quality tourism brand and serves as an appropriate, high level introduction/farewell as expected from visitors to the Capes region.

With airside infrastructure in place, BMRA now accommodates direct RPT (Regular Passenger Transport) Jetstar flights to Melbourne and Sydney, connections to Perth and 36 closed charter flights for the resources sector. The airport serviced in excess of 200,000 passengers in 2025-26.

There is an identified and urgent need to upgrade the terminal to a scale that allows all passengers to disembark smoothly and departing passengers to be processed through baggage and security for outbound flights. Facilities will be required to provide capacity for a fast turnaround and create opportunities for private sector engagement in operations, such as car rentals, food/drinks and retail.

The City of Busselton is leading the charge to increase revenues and attract private investment to support future growth. Studies have explored multiple options for a terminal proposal that would address current capacity issues.

Looking ahead to 2030 and beyond, BMRA’s future will include international capability and the prospect of delivering underbelly freight into Asian markets.

As well as being just 7km from Busselton CBD, the airport is also blessed with greenfield site opportunities.

The Cape to Cape Track is one of Australia’s premier and most iconic hikes, running along the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge between the lighthouses of Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin.

It is estimated that the Track attracts around 20,000 walkers each year, who engage in guided and independent short, day, and multi-day walks. However, a significant portion of the track and its associated day-use sites are in poor condition. Although recent upgrades have been made to a limited number of sections, there is a substantial opportunity to increase the number of interstate and international visitors by upgrading the entire track to meet international standards.

Plans for a Cape Leeuwin boardwalk will elevate its significance as one of the world’s three great maritime capes, alongside Cape Horn and the Cape of Good Hope. The proposal will offer accessibility to the Cape’s tip, featuring multiple viewing platforms and will bring to life stories spanning Wadandi Pibbulmun culture, ancient climate and continental shifts, the meeting of the Indian and Southern Oceans, historic shipwrecks, Dutch, French and British maritime exploration, whale migration, and the Ngari Capes Marine Park.

The project positions Augusta and the broader South West to capture growing visitor demand for quality, sustainable, nature and heritage-based experiences.

The South West is Western Australia’s premier trails destination, delivering options from leading mountain bike projects to a bridle trail, kayaking and world class walks that include the renowned 1,000km Bibbulmun Track, 1,072km Munda Biddi Trail and breathtaking 125km Cape to Cape Track.

Investment is supporting the extension of the walking/cycling Wadandi Track to 109km. The Wadandi Track traverses bushland, farms, vineyards and the magnificent Leeuwin-Naturaliste area, opening the door to other specialty routes from the arts to food and wine.

In contrast, Manjimup is developing Australia’s first trail bike hub which will provide unique access to State Forests. The hub is expected to attract more than 33,600 visitors yearly and builds on Manjimup’s reputation as a dirt bike racing destination.