4/10/02
Perth's newest tourist attraction, the WA Maritime Museum, will charge an entry fee to enhance its revenue and strengthen its position as a world-class facility.
Culture and the Arts Minister Sheila McHale said that the State Government would provide $2.5million per year towards the museum's operating costs, due to open on December 1, and admission fees would generate income to provide world-class exhibitions and a changing program of events.
"Our vision for the Maritime Museum is that it gains an international reputation," Ms McHale said.
"We can do this by introducing modest entry fees."
"It will no doubt be one of Western Australia's great tourism opportunities as well as offering educational experiences.
"The admission charge will generate funds to make the museum a landmark destination without draining taxpayer dollars.
"The entry fees are within, and in some cases below, the price range of similar activities."
The entry fees will be $10 for adults, $5 concession, and $3 for children aged five to 15. Children under five years old will be admitted for free.
Ms McHale said that in addition to keeping entry fees at a reasonable price, the museum would introduce discounted family passes, one free entry day per month and low priced annual passes so that Western Australians can visit all year for just a couple of dollars more than the normal price of entry.
For an extra two dollars, visitors can purchase an annual pass, which will entitle the holder to an unlimited number of visits to the new maritime museum annually.
A discounted family pass will be available for $22 for two adults and up to four children.
Other special discounts and offers for people with annual passes will give them extra opportunities to enjoy events at the maritime museum. These will include free entry to an evening presentation in the theatre, discounted entry to the Ovens submarine and discounts in the maritime museum's two shops.
"The State Government and WA Museum are committed to keeping admission charges affordable so the maritime museum is accessible to all people, including those with limited means," Ms McHale said.
The Fremantle Prison, Perth Zoo and the State's national parks are examples of similar entertainment and tourist venues that charge fees.
Additionally, museums in New South Wales and Victoria also charge entrance fees.
In Victoria, adults pay $15 - $5 more than the planned WA entry fee.
"Admission fees will ensure the museum has the funds to provide the standard of exhibitions and programs that will make it a landmark destination while spreading the cost to all users - not just the WA taxpayer," Ms McHale said.
Entry to the other WA museum sites, including the WA Maritime Museum's Shipwreck Galleries in Cliff Street, will remain free. Admission fees for the Submarine Ovens in Victoria Quay in Fremantle will remain the same at $8 per adult, with a discount for annual pass-holders.
Ms McHale said the fit-out of the WA Museum was proceeding well and was on target for the official opening ceremony and first entry-free day on Sunday, December 1.
Minister's Office - 9213 6900
