Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia celebrated a major milestone for the National Indigenous Training Academy (NITA), with 28 young Indigenous Australians graduating from the program at Ayers Rock Resort over the weekend – bringing the total number of graduates to 772 since NITA’s inception.
The event marked a national moment of pride, featuring a keynote address from Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, and a special performance by Indigenous singer-songwriter Budjerah, whose music and message resonated deeply with graduates, families, and community leaders in attendance. Other VIPs present at the event included Justin Mohamed, Australia’s inaugural Ambassador for First Nations People and Shadow Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Kerryn Liddle.
Graduates all received Certificate III qualifications in Hospitality, equipping them with nationally recognised skills and hands-on experience at one of Australia’s most iconic tourism destinations.
This celebration follows the recent graduation of three NITA students at Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre on 18 October, highlighting the Academy’s reach and impact across the country.
Adding to the momentum, Voyages also welcomed 27 new trainees on Monday 20 October – the largest new intake yet – including three Aṉangu students participating in a brand-new Certificate III in Tourism program, designed to further strengthen local employment pathways and support cultural storytelling on Country. Co-designed with Anangu (Uluru’s Traditional Owners) and delivered in partnership with Careers Training Centre, the program will grow the future generation of Anangu tour guides.
“These young trainees and graduates represent the future of Indigenous tourism in Australia. Their dedication and achievements reflect the power of opportunity, community, and culture. We’re honoured to walk alongside them as they take the next step in their careers,” Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia CEO Matt Cameron-Smith said.
“We’re especially proud to welcome a new intake of Aṉangu students into our newly launched Certificate III in Tourism program – co-designed with community to create meaningful employment pathways on Country. This marks an exciting new chapter for NITA and for the future of tourism in the region.”
NITA is a nationally accredited training program that empowers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth through education, paid work experience, and on-site support at leading tourism and hospitality locations.
Applications are open for Indigenous Australians aged 18-30 ready to build a career in hospitality or tourism.
