Tourism group formed to promote Indigenous reconciliation

Tourism group formed to promote Indigenous reconciliation

A newly established tourism Reconciliation Industry Networking Group (RING) has been curated to support reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia.

The Tourism RING was convened by Tourism Australia and Intrepid Travel, with the support of Reconciliation Australia, serving as an industry led, informal group providing opportunities for businesses with a reconciliation action plan (RAP) to connect and collaborate together and further Indigenous reconciliation.

Despite more than 2,200 organisations having a RAP, there is only a small number of travel industry business making up the number.

“Through tourism people can engage, listen and connect with the richness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and cultures in every corner on this country,” Phil Lockyer, head of Indigenous affairs, Tourism Australia, said.

“Our industry’s role in the reconciliation movement is an important one.

“As RAPs grow across the industry, being able to come together and to support and learn from each other and listen to diverse Indigenous voices will help us to build on our RAPs and challenges or ambition.”

The Tourism RING will share challenges and opportunities, identify best practice in reconciliation and listen to the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities on topics relevant to reconciliation, culture and tourism.

“Australia is home to the oldest continuing culture in the world and tourism is uniquely placed to celebrate, share and learn from First Nations peoples,” Brett Mitchell, Intrepid Travel ANZ managing director, said.

“Building strong and positive relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is an important part of our mission to create positive change through the joy of travel.”

Tourism RING members include:

  • Airbnb

  • Expedia Group

  • Experience Co

  • Flight Centre Travel Group

  • Intrepid Travel

  • Merlin Entertainments

  • NRMA

  • Qantas

  • South Australian Tourism Commission

  • Tourism Australia

  • Tourism Holdings Australia

  • Tourism Western Australia

  • Virgin Australia

  • VisitCanberra – Chief Minister, Treasury and Economic Development Directorate (ACT)

  • Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia

  • YHA Australia

The Tourism RING will meet quarterly, with the inaugural meeting having taken place on 30 November 2022.

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