The Northern Territory government has launched its updated Aboriginal Tourism Strategy to guide future growth of the NT's Aboriginal tourism sector.
The refreshed strategy aims to support Aboriginal people participating in the NT's tourism sector from an economical, social and cultural standpoint, while encouraging visitors to connect with immersive Aboriginal tourism experiences across the Territory.
Originally released in 2019, the Strategy has guided the Territory's Aboriginal tourism sector which in 2021-22 was estimated to have contributed $383 million into the NT economy, while supporting approximately 1,440 tourism jobs.
Northern Territory Aboriginal Tourism Committee chair, Paul Ah Chee said the refreshed strategy ensures Aboriginal Territorians are at the centre of NTATC's mission and vision.
"We want to ensure that local Aboriginal people own the Aboriginal tourism narrative in the Territory and benefit economically, socially and culturally," the Yankunytatjara, Wankangurru and Arrernte man said.
"The three yearly review enables us to reflect on progress made to date and ensure the strategy is on track to achieve our new goals and priorities."
Announced in April, a $6 million investment supports the updated Strategy with grant programs currently open to Territory-based majority owned Aboriginal businesses and organisations.
Financial support is also currently available through Round 7 of the $1 million Aboriginal Tourism Grant Program and the new $1.4 million Aboriginal Tourism Development in NT Parks and Reserves Grants Program.
Up to $150,000 for consultancy services to help unlock Aboriginal tourism development funding is also on offer through the Unlocking Aboriginal Tourism Development Funding program.
Northern Territory Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Joel Bowden said the Northern Territory government is supporting the growth of the Territory's Aboriginal tourism sector for the economic, cultural and social benefit of Aboriginal Territorians and for the broader benefit to the NT tourism industry.
"Aboriginal tourism plays a significant role in the Territory's tourism industry with the rich and diverse cultural traditions of Aboriginal Territorians a drawcard for international and domestic visitors to the NT," Mr Bowden said.
"Territory Labor is backing the continued growth of Aboriginal tourism in our regions, unlocking opportunities for Aboriginal Territorians and together with our Aboriginal Tourism Committee and operators we can continue to build the Territory's Aboriginal tourism sector and experiences."
The updated Northern Territory Aboriginal Tourism Strategy and annual progress reports can be viewed on the Tourism NT website.
