Local Government in a tourism setting is governed by legislation from the Commonwealth and State, from land-use planning through to environmental and health legislation; it is impacted by national and State tourism strategies, and participates in, and contributes to the activities of tourism organisations and networks.

Local Government is responsible for providing infrastructure including roads, airports, caravan and camping grounds, visitor centres and parks. As a State, Western Australia is abundant in natural attractions with a climate conducive to tourism activity; there is a lot to celebrate. WA Local Governments are diverse in their interests, needs and support requirements, which is a reflection of their geographical location, economic drivers, industry, resources, capacity and interests.
 
Each Local Government has a different approach.  For some tourism may be providing infrastructure, events and activities, while other Councils may provide signage and Wi-Fi stops as gateways to other destinations. In many ways it is about working with what already exists, and matching tourism development to Local Government business. It is also an opportunity to be involved in research and support conservation outcomes.

In 2014 WALGA was requested to research and investigate Local Governments roles in tourism and tourism development. Contextual research together with Local Government's feedback contributed to the Local Government Tourism Discussion Paper released in September 2015 with recommendations that were endorsed by WALGA's State Council. In 2016 WALGA developed a further paper titled Local Government and Tourism Position and Recommendations Paper with the recommendations being endorsed by WALGA's State Council in March 2017. As a first priority WALGA is committed to advocating for the development of a local government tourism strategy which delivers local tourism outcomes.