The Albanese Labor Government has announced a historic new partnership to support greater participation and economic opportunities for First Nations people and businesses in Australia’s tourism industry.
The First Nations Visitor Economy Partnership, comprising First Nations tourism industry representatives from every state and territory, will provide leadership and guidance on respectfully embedding Australia’s rich cultural heritage in our tourism offerings.
It will be tasked with investigating and establishing a permanent First Nations national tourism peak body which will provide guidance and strategic support to grow this critical sector.
“First Nations tourism offers an important avenue for First Nations people to stay on country, preserve their culture and knowledge while providing economic opportunities,” Trade and Tourism Minister, Senator Don Farrell, said.
“I recently had the privilege of attending the graduation of the National Indigenous Training Academy’s class of 2024 on Anangu country who expressed to me the importance of this industry and their excitement of sharing their culture with visitors. With graduates like these, alongside the support of this new national body, the future is very bright for First Nations tourism in Australia.
“We know that domestic and international visitors are increasingly seeking unique First Nations experiences as part of their travels.
“This presents great opportunities for First Nations tourism and job creation in Australia’s regions and First Nations communities.”
Designed in collaboration with the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA), Tourism Australia and state and territory governments, the partnership will initially be funded for two years through the National Indigenous Australians Agency’s Indigenous Advancement Strategy.
The news backs up the Government’s support of First Nations tourism programs like the Indigenous Tourism Fund and the First Nations Tourism Mentoring Program.
