Students from lower‑income communities across Western Australia will have another chance to experience the magic of Rottnest Island, thanks to the Cook Government’s overnight school camp subsidy program reopening for 2026.

Now in its third year, the initiative makes overnight school camps on the island more accessible, offering eligible families savings of more than $150 per child for a three-night stay. Schools in low-income areas can receive up to 100 per cent subsidy for accommodation, bike hire from Pedal & Flipper Hire, and educational tours delivered by the Rottnest Voluntary Guides Association.

“Rottnest Island is iconically Western Australian, and I’m pleased that school students from across the State will have the opportunity to experience a school camp on the island,” Tourism Minister Reece Whitby said.

“Families with students participating in the program are saving more than $150 for a three-night camp. The Cook Government is proud to be able to offer the program again in 2026 and is just another way we’re providing targeted cost-of-living relief for WA families.”

Education Minister Sabine Winton emphasised the benefits for students beyond cost savings. “School camps on Rottnest Island give students the opportunity to build new friendships, experience different environments, and create lasting memories,” she said.

“The island offers so many opportunities to learn about the natural environment, our cultural history, as well as our military and maritime heritage. This initiative makes overnight camps more affordable, and I encourage eligible schools to apply for this unique opportunity in 2026.”

Fremantle MLA Simone McGurk added that the island’s infrastructure and educational programs make it an ideal setting for school groups. “Rottnest Island is one of Western Australia’s favourite holiday spots enjoyed every year by hundreds of thousands of locals as well as interstate and international visitors,” she said.

“The island is set up for school camps, with a range of accommodation options and opportunities for school children to learn about the island’s history.”

Since the program began, students from Perth and regional areas including the Wheatbelt, Mid West, Gascoyne, Goldfields-Esperance, and Great Southern have attended camps of up to three nights, benefiting from a combination of subsidies and discounts that make the experience more affordable.

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