The Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) today launched its inaugural Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) at Meeting Place in Perth, marking a significant step in the organisation’s commitment to advancing reconciliation within Australia’s tourism industry.
The Plan, formally endorsed by Reconciliation Australia, outlines ATEC’s framework for building stronger relationships, fostering respect, and creating opportunities with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The endorsement recognises ATEC’s role as a national peak body with the capacity to influence reconciliation outcomes across the broader visitor economy.
ATEC Managing Director Peter Shelley said the launch represents both a milestone for ATEC and an invitation to the tourism industry to take meaningful steps towards reconciliation.
“Australia’s tourism story begins with one of the world’s oldest living cultures, and our Reconciliation Action Plan reflects our commitment to embedding that truth into the heart of our industry,” Shelley said.
“Tourism is a powerful connector which allows us to share culture, build understanding, and create economic opportunities that strengthen communities and this Plan will help ATEC and its members ensure that First Nations voices are recognised, respected, and celebrated.”
The Reflect RAP sets out practical actions across relationships, respect, and opportunity, including connecting ATEC members with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander tourism businesses, supporting employment and procurement pathways, and embedding cultural learning across the organisation.
“Reconciliation is not a destination but a journey, and today marks the beginning of ours,” Shelley said.
“Through listening, learning, and acting with purpose, we aim to play our part in fostering an inclusive and culturally respectful industry that honours the people and stories at the heart of Australia’s identity.”
