About this platform
Namaste Westside is an integrated visitor service program catering to the rapidly expanding India tourism market for Melbourne’s west. This pilot project centres on the development of “Namaste Westside”, a customised digital platform combining a WhatsApp based AI-driven chat bot paired with an interactive website.
One in ten visitors from India to Australia are currently visiting Melbourne’s west. Comprehensive research was undertaken to better understand the travel patterns of this key market and the motivations of Indian travellers, information gaps and barriers to travel.
These insights have shaped a highly innovative and customised application of AI utilising WhatsApp as a primary channel. Namaste Westside is an integrated AI powered travel companion providing instant information. It answers any question, bringing together events, places food and local stories into one easy conversation.
From cultural landmarks and family days out to local cafés, festivals and weekend itineraries, our AI guide surfaces recommendations tailored to individual interests. Users can engage with the platform via the website or on WhatsApp.
The platform embraces extensive community outreach and engagement, drawing on insights and advice from Melbourne’s Indian community, resulting in an authentic ‘insider’s guide.’ Behind the AI technology is a network of community groups, local hosts and passionate residents who shape the West every day. When visitors want to go deeper – the history, hidden spots, traditions and local favourites – Namaste Westside links you directly to the people and groups who can share it firsthand. It’s the kind of insight you simply can’t get from a search engine.
Why the west?
Melbourne’s West is one of the most diverse and creative parts of the city and home to the highest concentration of the Indian diaspora – full of stories, flavours and neighbourhoods that often get overlooked. We’re here to change that, by spotlighting the people, traditions and hidden spots that locals already love.
The platform has been designed to help visitors access Melbourne‘s west with greater confidence connection and ease. As Indian visitor numbers to Melbourne’s West continue to grow, Namaste Westside will help strengthen cultural ties, showcase the vibrancy of communities, dispel myths and enhance the overall visitor experience.
Namaste Westside is an initiative of Western Melbourne Tourism Inc. Embracing AI. Grounded in community. Built for everyone exploring the West.
Western Melbourne Tourism has led the overall coordination of this 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, Victoria University and multicultural consultants Culture Kite. The project is funded by the Victorian Government Visitor Servicing Fund grant.
