From sun-drenched deserts to turquoise reefs, Western Australia is a land of contrasts and wonder. Tourism Western Australia (TWA) is bringing this extraordinary destination to the world with the new chapter of its global campaign, Walking On A Dream, offering travellers an invitation to step into landscapes and experiences that feel truly otherworldly.
The campaign captures WA’s magic through cinematic storytelling filmed across its most iconic locations: the vibrant coral gardens of Ningaloo Reef, the rolling vineyards of Margaret River, the pristine beaches of Rottnest Island, the cultural heartbeat of Perth, and the ancient, rugged beauty of Mirima National Park in the Kimberley. Five 30-second vignettes and a 60-second showcase film celebrate the state’s dreamlike spirit, blending awe-inspiring scenery with stories of culture and creativity.
Music and Culture at the Heart
A new version of Empire of The Sun’s iconic song Walking On A Dream forms the campaign’s musical core. WA-raised frontman Luke Steele collaborated with the West Australian Symphony Orchestra and Aboriginal artist Billy-Jo Shoveller, a Karajarri man, to create a rendition that reflects the state’s ethereal and inspiring landscapes.
“Working with Billy-Jo and WASO to create this version was magical—it feels like WA itself, magical and otherworldly,” said Steele. For Shoveller, the project was a deeply personal celebration of his culture and connection to Country. “As a Karajarri man, being part of this campaign allowed me to share the Kimberley’s spirit and my culture with the world,” he said.
The campaign also features Nyikina man Nelson Baker and emerging actor Angelica Blazeska, both alumni of the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Developed in partnership with Traditional Owners and WA’s Aboriginal tourism sector, the films celebrate authentic storytelling, creative expression, and deep connections to Country.
A Journey Beyond the Ordinary
Walking On A Dream invites travellers to experience WA beyond the usual tourist map. Imagine snorkeling above vibrant corals at Ningaloo Reef, savoring world-class wine in Margaret River, cycling along the pristine shores of Rottnest Island, or exploring the ancient rock formations and Aboriginal heritage of the Kimberley. Each destination is a story, each landscape a living canvas.
The campaign rolls out globally from February 2026, continuing the success of the original 2022 launch, which played a crucial role in Western Australia’s post-pandemic tourism recovery. In the year ending October 2025, WA welcomed more than one million international visitors, surpassing pre-pandemic records and signaling growing global interest in the state’s unique offerings.
An Invitation to Explore
Tourism Western Australia, the state government agency driving visitation and experiences, emphasizes collaboration, major events, and global storytelling as tools to connect travellers with WA. Through Walking On A Dream, the state positions itself as a destination for adventure, culture, and creativity, offering experiences that linger long after the journey ends.
Whether it’s the dazzling beauty of a coral reef, the quiet majesty of an ancient landscape, or the vibrant pulse of local art and culture, Western Australia promises travellers a journey that is unforgettable, immersive, and, quite literally, like walking on a dream.
