Full Breakdown
Impact of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Narelle on Western Australia's Tourism and Backpacker Workforce
4/3/2026, 8:42:14 AM
Overview of the Situation
Ex-Tropical Cyclone Narelle has significantly disrupted the tourism sector in Western Australia, particularly affecting the town of Exmouth, which relies heavily on its backpacker workforce. As businesses grapple with the aftermath of the cyclone, many have been forced to let go of casual workers due to a lack of available jobs during the recovery period.
Consequences for Local Businesses and Workers
The cyclone struck just before the peak tourist season, leading to immediate closures and job losses. Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort, the largest resort in Exmouth, sustained severe damage and has ceased operations. Local businesses, including Exmouth Adventure Company, are facing financial uncertainty, with managing director Hal Paine expressing a "moral obligation" to pay new staff despite the lack of income. The situation has left many backpackers, such as Eva McNabola from the UK, feeling stranded and anxious about their future in the town.
Italian tourists Julia Legnane and Patrick Garabaldi, who were working at a cafe in Coral Bay, have also been affected. They were evacuated to Carnarvon but are now stranded due to road closures and business shutdowns in Coral Bay. Their predicament highlights the broader issue of how the cyclone has left many workers without options.
Government Response and Support Measures
In response to the disaster, the Albanese and Cook Governments have activated disaster recovery assistance for several communities impacted by the cyclone, including Exmouth, Carnarvon, Ashburton, Upper Gascoyne, and Yalgoo. This assistance includes financial support for individuals and families, as well as interest rate subsidies for small businesses. Federal Assistant Minister for Emergency Management Josh Wilson emphasized the government's commitment to helping communities recover and restore tourism.
Tourism Minister Reece Whitby has also engaged with the Tourism Council and the Australian Hotels Association to assess the sector's needs and explore additional support measures for affected businesses.
Criticism and Calls for Action
Opposition leader Basil Zempilas has called on the Western Australian government to take a leadership role in supporting the backpacker workforce, which he described as the "lifeblood" of Exmouth. He urged the government to find ways to accommodate those without work until the tourism season resumes, highlighting the vulnerability of these workers in the current situation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “When they get there, as an employer it is going to be a little bit scary because I'll be obliged to give them work, but we won't have much income until possibly after Easter, or whenever flights resume and the infrastructure is there to service the influx of tourism," Mr Paine said.” — Hal Paine, Managing Director, Exmouth Adventure Company
- “What can the government of Western Australia do to support Exmouth and support those people in these very vulnerable positions?” — Basil Zempilas, Opposition Leader
Conclusion
The aftermath of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Narelle has created a challenging environment for businesses and workers in Western Australia, particularly in Exmouth. As the region begins its recovery, the focus remains on restoring the tourism sector and supporting the vital backpacker workforce that contributes to its economy.
