Frequently asked questions
This is the section where we hope to answer your questions. You should also find all of our Application Forms which will be neccessary when you are applying for certain permits and allowances.
Below are the answers to the most commonly asked questions. If you do not find the answer to your question please feel free to contact us on (08) 9432 9111 for accommodation enquries or (08) 9432 9300 for all general enquiries.
What kind of accommodation is available?
The Rottnest Island Authority offers a variety of self contained accommodation including units, villas, cottages, cabins and camping. In addition the Authority offers dormitory style accommodation at Kingstown Barracks, Governors Circle and Rottnest Island Hostel. The Hotel Rottnest and Rottnest Lodge offer alternative accommodation on the Island. Find out more about accommodation on Rottnest Island.
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Reservations for RIA cottages, units, villas, cabins and camping can be made up to 12 months in advance. Reservation lines open the first working day of each month for that same month the following year, for example reservations for August 2010 open on Monday 3rd August, 2009.
Please note that school holiday periods are in peak demand, so to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to book accommodation at this time an accommodation ballot is in place.
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What is the Ballot?
Due to the high demand for accommodation on Rottnest Island during peak school holidays, a ballot system is run to allow all applicants an equal chance of reserving accommodation during these popular periods. Find out more about the Rottnest Island accommodation ballot.
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How do I book RIA accommodation?
To make an enquiry or reserve cottages, units, villas, cabins and camping including Kingstown Barracks, please call Central Reservations on (08) 9432 9111 or 1800 111 111 (within Australia only) between 8.30am and 5.00pm Monday through Saturday.
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How do I book the Hotel Rottnest or Rottnest Lodge?
Contact the Hotel Rottnest and the Lodge directly for enquiries and bookings.
Hotel Rottnest
Phone: (08) 9292 5011
email: reception@hotelrottnest.com.au
Rottnest Lodge
Phone: (08) 9292 5161
email: reservations@rottnestlodge.com.au
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How do I pay for my accommodation?
In person
Payments can be received at the Accommodation Counter at the Rottnest Island Authority Office at the E-Shed, Victoria Quay, Fremantle on weekdays between 9:00am and 4:30pm.
Telephone
Payment can be made by calling Central Reservations on (08) 9432 9111 (1800 111 111 for WA Country callers) between 8.30am and 5.00pm Monday through Saturday.
Online payment
You can book and pay online with the Rottnest Island accommodation booking website.
Email and Fax
Payments can also be made my emailing reservations@rottnestisland.com or alternatively by fax on 9432 9315.
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How do I check in to my accommodation?
You must check in at the Visitor Centre which is located at the end of the Jetty in Thomson Bay. This is the check in point for the Rottnest Island Authority accommodation including Kingstown Barracks. A welcome pack will be sent to visitors two weeks prior to their stay, with the details needed for check in. Guests of the Hotel Rottnest and the Rottnest Lodge should proceed directly to these establishments for check in.
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How do I get myself/ belongings/ luggage/ family to my accommodation?
Most accommodation in Thomson bay is within walking distance of the Main Jetty. If you are staying in Geordie, Longreach and Fays bays or Kingstown Barracks, a Transfer Bus runs between the Main Bus Stop and Geordie bay shops, and Kingstown Barracks. You can also take the Bayseeker bus for free from Geordie Bay to the Main Bus Stop. If you clearly label your luggage before putting it onto the ferry we will deliver your luggage to your accommodation. Please note that there are no taxis or private vehicles on the island. Check out the luggage information page for everything you need to know about taking baggage on your trip to Rottnest.
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How much luggage can I bring?
Check out the luggage information page for everything you need to know about taking baggage on your trip to Rottnest.
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What time can I check in and out?
Check in time is 2:00pm. This is to ensure that your accommodation has been cleaned and checked by your quality assurance team. Personal identification of the tenant holder will be required at check- in.
Check out time is 9:00am. This is to ensure that your accommodation is cleaned before the next guests arrive. Please remember to drop off your key at the Visitor Centre after vacating your unit. Please close windows and lock doors on departure.
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Can I book ferry tickets?
No, the ferry companies which service Rottnest Island are privately owned and operated and you should contact them directly for enquiries, timetables and bookings. Check out the Rottnest ferries page for more information and contact details.
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Can I bring my pet to Rottnest?
Rottnest Island is an ‘A’ Class Reserve and domestic pets are not permitted on the Island or in its waters. Persons in contravention of this regulation will be penalised and required to remove the pet immediately, at their own expense.
If there is a genuine medical requirement to bring an animal with you such as a guide dog this is acceptable.
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What else do I need to know?
When booking accommodation please remember:
- Reservations must be made by a person aged 18 or over, and that person must be in attendance through the entire residency.
- Under no circumstances are tenancies transferable.
- Once payment has been received, cancellations or alterations to bookings will incur fees.
- Bonds are payable during designated periods and in particular circumstances.
- Payments received within 14 days of occupancy or on arrival must be cash, eftpos or credit card only, as cheques cannot be accepted.
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