First Nations tourism receives a $6 million boost

First Nations tourism will receive a major boost with a $6 million combined investment designed to create more events, jobs and business opportunities.

Barron River MP Craig Crawford, Senator Nita Green, CEO of Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia Matt Cameron-Smith, Minister of Tourism Michael Healy and Director of independent Indigenous Tourism Operators of Queensland Linc Walker join Indigenous Tourism Operators in Palm Cove. Photo: Supplied

First Nations tourism is set to receive a major boost with a $6 million combined investment from the Queensland Government and Australian Government designed to create more events, jobs and business opportunities.

The funding will go towards 25 new projects due for completion by the end of 2025.

Tourism Minister Michael Healy said the State government wants Queensland to be Australia’s leading destination for First Nations tourism activities.

“One of the top bucket list items for tourists is to have an authentic Indigenous tourism experience,” he said.

“This funding will help develop innovative First Nations tourism products, unique to each area, delivered by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Kuku Yalanji elder Roy Gibson and founding member of the Mossman Gorge Tourist Centre, provides Prince Charles with a traditional cultural tour during his visit to Mossman Gorge, Far North Queensland. PICTURE: JUSTIN BRIERTY

“It will benefit the whole tourism industry and build wealth creation opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”

Matt Cameron-Smith, CEO of Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia who operate the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre said travellers are seeking authentic and meaningful experiences.

“Our business operates at the forefront of socially responsible tourism. We’re really proud that the Centre employs 65% Indigenous team members and is also home to the National Indigenous Training Academy (NITA), empowering a young Indigenous workforce in tourism and hospitality through market-leading training and qualifications,” he said.

“Today’s boost to First Nations tourism in Queensland promises to create even more employment pathways for Indigenous Australians while supporting an industry that plays a crucial role in keeping Indigenous culture strong for the next generation.”

Director of independent Indigenous Tourism Operators of Queensland Lic Walker said there was enormous potential to bring more authentic tourism activities and products for Indigenous people to work on their traditional Countries.

EMBARGO FOR TWAM 27 AUGUST 2022. FEE MAY APPLY. Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre ten year anniversary event. Dreamtime walk with Tom Creek. Source: Supplied

“The opportunity for our mobs to showcase new activities, places and stories across Queensland is welcome and will have a positive flow-on effect across Indigenous tourism operations and local communities,” he said.

“It’s exciting to think we’ve only just scratched the surface with the development and growth of First Nations tourism in Queensland.”

Originally published as First Nations tourism receives a $6 million boost