Call for Aboriginal tourism operators in Kings Park Western Australia

Kings Park and Botanic Garden is inviting local businesses employing, owned or run by Aboriginal people to provide a range of new commercial visitor experiences in the park. 

The initiative has been prompted by demands from domestic and international visitors for authentic Aboriginal cultural experiences.

According to recent Tourism WA data, 78% of visitors to Western Australia seek an Aboriginal cultural experience. Interest from the local community to gain a greater understanding of Noongar culture is also increasing.
 
This project is part of a broader plan by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions to encourage authentic cultural experiences and collaborations with Aboriginal businesses across WA.
  
"Kings Park, known as Kaarta Koomba, is a very significant place for the Whadjuk Noongar people, with rich Aboriginal history, connection to country and cultural stories to share,” said Environment Minister Stephen Dawson.
 
"We hope to attract a range of operators who will offer a variety of experiences that celebrate this unique and fascinating part of WA culture. Ideas include walking tours, storytelling, dance, art making or bush tucker experiences.
 
"This is a fantastic economic opportunity for Aboriginal people and provides great benefits for Kings Park, its visitors and the WA community."
 
"The McGowan Government wants WA to be the premier State in Australia to experience Aboriginal culture and tourism and we are currently developing a cross-government action plan to help us achieve that goal,” added Tourism Minister Paul Papalia. 
 
Support for new or emerging Aboriginal businesses who wish to develop their businesses and submit an expression of interest is available from organisations such as WAITOC (Western Australian Indigenous Tourism Operators Council), the Small Business Development Corporation and through businesses registered on the Aboriginal Business Directory WA. All applications will be independently assessed by a panel of experts.

Expressions of interest will close on January 14th, 2019
Information on how to apply is available at http://www.dbca.wa.gov.au/eoi

Individual site meetings with the Kings Park team are available for people interested in applying or obtaining further information. A site meeting can be arranged by contacting the team on (08) 9480 3600.