Lens will not open

One thing to test before going to repair, make sure you are using a fully charged and correct battery for your camera.
If so, the camera will need repair. This is a common problem and can be fixed. Teleplan Camera Repair does a great job and their blog is also very informative.
Repair: http://www.teleplancamerarepair.com/Sony_Cyber-shot_DSC-W30

Try these procedures.

I had the same problem with the lens, just pull the lens gently until u hear a small click sound, it will be like new again. just tried it and it really works

It sounds like you have a damaged zoom servo.. which is odd because you're camera probably extends the lens once it's originally turned on. The motor/servo is kind of expensive to replace and it may be more cost effective to purchase a newer camera. 
To make sure i'm correct. try turning your camera on with your hand over the lens to stop it from protruding. if you get a similar or the same message then it's the motor. If it just beeps then i have no idea what the issue is. Has the camera been dropped recently?

Lens mechanism isn't good to work properly so camera shut down the power. Try to tap the lens/ camera while power up.
If you have a memory card in the camera, take it out before turning the camera on

I used some compressed air to blow around the camera lens opening. I think there must have been some dust there during our trip across the Simpson Desert which was the problem.

I had t he three beep problem and also the lens was open. I tried batteries - then i noticed the lens was slightly bent - i tried straightening and it snapped and went into place. then i tried turning it on and it was fine and when i turned it off the lens closed.

Maybe your lens is bent.

Take the battery out and turn selection switch to camera and then turn it off. Put the battery back in and its working again.
if that doesn't work try
Try smacking the side of the camera relatively hard with the palm of your hand. Eject the tape and reinsert. You may need to do this a couple of times.

Sounds like your lens is stuck. Try a gentle tug and it should open all the way. Then you can power your camera down.

If the lens is not coming out, its stuck, or it wont completely open or close, that is the lens assembly, that needs to be repaired. You need to take it to somebody, that can either repair it or replace it for you. There is nothing that can be done, other than that......