Welcome to the Year of Indigenous Tourism
Posted on January 22nd, 2020
The Year of Indigenous Tourism in Queensland has officially kicked off, with a range of support available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander tourism businesses to further develop their experiences and grow their business.
This includes the newly launched Indigenous Innovation and Entrepreneurs Program, a new dedicated Indigenous Tourism Development Service, a Growing Indigenous Tourism in Queensland Fund and development of an Indigenous tourism strategy for South East Queensland.
The 2020 Year of Queensland Indigenous Tourism follows on from the highly successful 2019 Year of Outback Tourism promoting Outback Queensland tourism, history, culture, events and achievements – contributing to the state’s $27 billion tourism industry and supporting 236,000 jobs.
The new $10 million Indigenous tourism fund has been launched to create economic opportunities and jobs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders. The fund will support new, unique and innovative Indigenous tourism products and experiences in Queensland, particularly in regional areas.
The fund comprises two categories. There is up to $25,000 available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander enterprises, like Aboriginal corporations, Prescribed Body Corporates, Indigenous tourism businesses and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander councils, to develop a concept for an Indigenous tourism product or experience.
This can include developing a feasibility study for an Aboriginal cultural interpretation centre or a concept plan for a heritage-based cycling experience in country.
The second category offers $250,000 to $1 million to Indigenous businesses and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander councils for projects that improve or develop key tourism infrastructure and facilities or provide a unique tourism experience.
Examples include guided bush tucker walks on country, visiting ancient rock art sites and learning about country and culture from a Traditional Owner, improving tourism infrastructure to protect cultural heritage sites and developing public Indigenous walks and tracks.
Tourism businesses around the state can get involved with the Year of Indigenous Tourism by promoting Indigenous experiences that visitors can explore in their region.
Share the Indigenous e-book to help your customers connect with culture.
In addition, the Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s Aspiring Indigenous Director Program is designed to assist emerging Indigenous leaders who are interested in taking up board positions. Through structured learning sessions, workshops and monthly discussion groups guided by experienced directors, participants will develop their boardroom skills and confidence, expand their networks and be supported as they look to take up board positions.
Apply by completing the EOI form and email it by Friday 31st January 2020.
