Horizontal Falls Tourism Extended to 2028 as State Tips $5 Million Into Infrastructure

Why It Matters

Extending access balances tourism revenue with Indigenous cultural stewardship, setting a precedent for collaborative management of iconic natural attractions. The $5 million boost accelerates infrastructure that can diversify visitor experiences and protect the site’s heritage.

Key Takeaways

• WA grants $5M for infrastructure supporting Indigenous-led tourism
• Access to Horizontal Falls extended through 2028 under new licensing
• Traditional owners will co‑create cultural experiences and guide tours
• Second, narrower gap remains permanently closed for safety
• Feasibility study will shape future operating model beyond 2028

Pulse Analysis

Horizontal Falls, known as Garaan‑ngaddim, has become a marquee adventure destination in Australia’s Kimberley region, drawing thrill‑seekers to its dramatic tidal rapids. After a 2022 boat accident and growing safety concerns, the Western Australian government announced a phased withdrawal of gap‑ride operations by 2028. By extending access for two more years under a tightly controlled licensing regime, the state aims to preserve the economic benefits of tourism while addressing safety and environmental pressures.

Central to the new arrangement is the active participation of the Dambimangari native title‑holders, whose cultural connection to the falls dates back generations. The $5 million state investment will fund on‑site infrastructure—such as visitor centres, safety upgrades, and interpretive signage—designed in partnership with Indigenous leaders. A pilot program already trains Dambimangari guides to lead tours, blending storytelling with ecological education. This collaborative model not only respects sacred sites but also creates authentic experiences that can command higher value per visitor.

The broader implication for Australian tourism is significant. By tying funding to Indigenous co‑management, Western Australia showcases a template for reconciling commercial interests with cultural preservation. The forthcoming feasibility study will determine the post‑2028 operating framework, potentially expanding culturally‑rich offerings beyond the high‑adrenaline rides. If successful, the Horizontal Falls initiative could inspire similar partnerships at other heritage locations, reinforcing a shift toward sustainable, community‑driven tourism across the nation.