The Morrison Government today announced new support for Indigenous tourism through comprehensive package of business support and grants under the $40 million Indigenous Tourism Fund.
Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Hon Ken Wyatt AM, MP, said Indigenous tourism businesses have been hard hit by the combined impact of bushfires and COVID-19.
"The tourism sector was one of the first to be impacted by COVID-19 and will be one of the last to recover," Minister Wyatt said.
"This fund delivers on our election commitment, and has been designed in consultation with the Indigenous tourism sector who have told us clearly what they need to recover and grow their businesses."
$10 million from this fund will go towards a National Indigenous Tourism Mentoring Program to offer businesses individualised support.
Up to $12 million will be available under the Tourism Grants for Indigenous Business Program to help businesses and community organisations develop new products, and purchase systems and equipment. Applications for the grant will open on 22 February.
Up to $17 million will be available for States and Territories to co-invest with the Commonwealth on significant Indigenous tourism projects. This is a real opportunity to expand the range of Indigenous tourism experiences available across Australia.
To ensure the fund is Indigenous led, $1 million will be provided for the establishment of a National Indigenous Tourism Advisory Group consisting of successful Indigenous experts from a variety of fields to advise on priorities for the sector and the implementation of the fund.
The National Indigenous Tourism Advisory Group will be chaired by Professor Deen Sanders OAM with Ms Helen Martin as Deputy Chair.
Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, the Hon Dan Tehan MP, said the package would support Australia's diverse tourism market.
"We want tourists to share and enjoy Australia's rich Indigenous history, culture and traditions," Mr Tehan said.
"Our Government is supporting Indigenous tourism operators so they can continue offering these unique experiences and also provide employment and business opportunities in their communities.
"Australia's health and economic success at managing COVID-19 means we are well-placed to recover and grow our domestic and international tourism sector and we want Indigenous tourism to be a key part of the Australian visitor experience."
