Queensland First Nations tourism enriched with $6 million boost

First Nations tourism across Queensland is to be enriched with a $6 million funding boost from from the Queensland and Australian Governments designed to create more events, jobs and business opportunities.

The Strategic Indigenous Tourism Projects (SITP) will see matching $3 million commitments go towards 25 programs that will enrich First Nations tourism experiences across Queensland including:

• Creating Regional First Nations Tourism Action Plans

• Programs delivered by Tourism and Events Queensland to mentor First Nations businesses to deliver exceptional tourism experiences, prepare to be trade-ready and to deliver cultural event experiences

• Implementation of the First Nations Tourism Plan 2020-2025

• Emerging Field School Program for up to 60 businesses

• Delivering Regional Industry Events

• Continuing the Our Country Advisory Service delivery across Queensland.

Local communities and Traditional Owners will help develop the projects within each program, to recognise each area’s unique opportunities and needs.

The funding will create exciting employment pathways, new events and expand the supply of high quality First Nations tourism experiences for visitors to Queensland in the lead up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games and beyond.

There will be more supply chain opportunities for other Indigenous businesses, delivering long term economic benefits to the Indigenous tourism sector.

The funds for projects will be administered by the Department of Tourism and Sport and other tourism peak bodies including:

• Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ)

• Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC)

• Queensland First Nations Tourism Council (QFNTC),

• Independent Indigenous Tourism Operators of Queensland (IITOQ)

• and Regional Tourism Organisations (RTOs).

The SITP is part of the Federal Government’s $17 million Indigenous Tourism Fund and aligns with the priority reform areas set out in the National Agreement on Closing the Gap and the Queensland Governments Towards Tourism 2032 Strategy.

The 25 projects will be scheduled for completion by 31st December 2025.

Tourism and Sport Minister Michael Healy noted “We want 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.

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

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

Matt Cameron-Smith, Chief Executive of Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia (operators of Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre) shared “We know travellers are seeking authentic and meaningful Indigenous tourism experiences – equally they are recognising the importance of ensuring these are mutually beneficial.

“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.”

Brett Fraser, Chief Executive , Queensland Tourism Industry Council added “We welcome funding and support measures that elevate First Nations tourism in Queensland.

“We know that visitors are increasingly seeking experiences that connect them with nature and culture.

“It is more important than ever for Queensland to invest in this growing interest and to draw attention to and elevate the world’s oldest living cultures.

“As an industry that puts people, culture, and land at the heart of its service, it is critical that we work together to embed Indigenous representation in Queensland tourism.”

Image. Credit: Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia (operators of Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre)