Kimberley tourism operators could be stopped from passing through the area's famous Horizontal Falls under proposed licensing changes by the Western Australian government and traditional owners.
Tourism operators were invited to a closed-door meeting in Broome on Tuesday to discuss potential changes to the current licensing system, which regulates the use of jet boats that pass through the quick-moving Kimberley tides.
A premier attraction in the northern Kimberley, operators were told no new licenses would be issued to companies looking to pass through the falls, although no final decision had been made on long-term changes for companies that already hold licenses.
The ABC understands tourism operators are seeking more clarity about the proposed changes and are concerned about the long-term viability of their businesses if they were to go ahead - citing potential million-dollar losses.
Changes proposed for 'cultural, safety reasons'
In a statement, a Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions spokesman said while no firm decision around changes have been made, they were being considered for a number of reasons.
"The joint management partners are currently looking at proposed licensing changes for visitation to Garaanngaddim/Horizontal Falls and the broader Talbot Bay anchorage area," they said.
"The proposed changes are aimed at delivering culturally appropriate tourism and improving safety."
Businesses currently pay a fee to traditional owner group Dambeemangaree for use of the land and sea, who consider the falls and surrounds as a spiritual place with cultural significance.
The practice of passing through Horizontal Falls came under the microscope last year, after an incident on a jet boat injured dozens of people.
The Australian Maritime Safety Watchdog said the boat crashed into a rock wall and the operator was barred from running through the falls until they were cleared by inspectors.
