Destination Central NSW have prepared this current information (25 March 2026) and resources:
Where we’re at
A whole-of-government taskforce has now been established to coordinate the response, with Destination NSW (DNSW) working through this process to align communications and next steps. At a regional level, we are already seeing impacts across the visitor economy, including reduced forward bookings, cancellations and growing concern around access to the region.
Initial feedback from industry has been strong, with over 240 businesses responding to early engagement and indicating emerging impacts across bookings and visitor confidence.
It is important to reinforce that the Central West remains open and accessible via multiple alternative routes. DNCW is working closely with councils, the Central NSW Joint Organisation, DNSW, RDA Central West and Business NSW (Western NSW) to ensure a coordinated regional response.
What is happening now
A coordinated regional marketing campaign, Other Ways to the West, is now being rolled out to provide clear and consistent messaging to visitors about how to access the region. This campaign is focused on:
- Reinforcing that the Central West is open for business
- Providing clarity on alternative travel routes
- Supporting operators to maintain bookings and reduce cancellations
We encourage all operators to download the toolkit and align messaging where possible to ensure consistency across the region.
What you can do now
There are a number of practical steps operators can take immediately:
- Update your website, booking platforms and customer communications with clear travel advice
- Contact forward bookings to reassure visitors and provide alternative route information
- Promote alternative routes and encourage visitors to allow extra travel time
- Consider packaging offers or encouraging longer stays where appropriate
- Upload any relevant offers or deals to ATDW to support visibility
- Use consistent messaging across your social and marketing channels
Help us build the picture
DNCW is working with DNSW and Business NSW to ensure the impacts of the current access disruption are clearly understood and represented. We strongly encourage all operators to complete the Business NSW survey currently in market, as this will form a key part of the statewide evidence base.
In addition, DNCW is capturing real-time local insights through a short Central West Industry Impact Snapshot. This is a quick 2-minute check-in and will help us provide on-the-ground examples to government and help advocate for the region. We are also seeking to establish a small group of operators across the region to provide occasional updates over the coming weeks. If you are willing to contribute to this, you can indicate your interest at the end of the snapshot. If you are experiencing significant impacts and would like to share your situation directly, please contact us at info@dncw.com.au