Western Melbourne Tourism has launched Namaste Westside, a new visitor servicing platform designed to help Indian travellers discover places, events, food and local experiences across Melbourne’s west.
The platform combines an AI-powered travel companion on WhatsApp with an interactive website, giving visitors access to tailored information through a familiar messaging service as well as a dedicated online platform.
The platform was officially launched by the Hon Natalie Suleyman MP, Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment and Member for St Albans, at Parliament House on Thursday 10 September.
Sharing moments from the launch, Suleyman described Namaste Westside as an initiative connecting visitors with Melbourne’s western communities, culture, local businesses, attractions and lesser-known places.
She said the event brought together representatives from the community, tourism sector, government and local leadership to mark the launch of the AI-powered tourism platform.
Suleyman also thanked Matthew Hilakari MP, Board Committee Member, and Cr Pradeep Tiwari for attending the event.
In her post about the launch, Suleyman said the platform would help showcase the diversity, culture and stories of Melbourne’s west to visitors from India and around the world.
The project follows research into the travel patterns and motivations of Indian visitors, as well as the information gaps and barriers they can face when exploring Melbourne’s west. Western Melbourne Tourism says one in 10 visitors from India to Australia currently visits the region.
The AI travel companion has been designed to answer visitor questions and bring together information about local events, attractions, food and community stories. Visitors can seek recommendations ranging from cultural landmarks and family activities to cafés, festivals and weekend itineraries.
The project also draws on knowledge gathered through community outreach involving Melbourne’s Indian community. Western Melbourne Tourism says local groups, hosts and residents have contributed to the platform, with the aim of providing information that reflects local experiences.
Visitors looking for more detail about the history, traditions and lesser-known places featured on the platform can also be connected with local people and community groups.
The focus on Melbourne’s west reflects the region’s growing Indian visitor market and its large Indian diaspora. The project aims to make it easier for visitors to explore the area while giving greater visibility to local businesses, communities and cultural experiences.
Namaste Westside has been coordinated by Western Melbourne Tourism over an 18-month project, in partnership with Brimbank City Council, the City of Maribyrnong, Melton City Council, Moonee Valley City Council, Hobsons Bay City Council and Wyndham City Council, along with Victoria University and multicultural consultants Culture Kite.
The project is supported through the Victorian Government Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions Visitor Servicing Fund.
The platform uses AI alongside community input, with the aim of giving visitors practical information and local recommendations as they explore Melbourne’s west.
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