The NT Aboriginal Tourism Accelerator program was announced this week at the second annual Northern Territory Aboriginal Tourism Forum in Alice Springs.
The initiative will support Aboriginal entrepreneurs and boost the sustainability and growth of Aboriginal tourism products across the NT – which could have a flow on to options for business events organisers looking to include cultural and educational experiences by Australia’s First Nations peoples in their Northern Territory programs.
Those who join the program will have formal training and learn practical skills, in addition to gaining access to advisors, coaches and networks to help them advance their businesses.
“The Northern Territory is a premier destination for authentic Aboriginal tourism experiences, visitors to the NT have an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in authentic stories, artworks and history spanning more than 60,000 years,” said the NT’s tourism and hospitality minister Joel Bowden.
“The NT Aboriginal Tourism Accelerator Program supports the Territory Labor Government’s commitment to the growth and development of the Aboriginal tourism industry and building an Aboriginal workforce.”
Applications for the program are now open and close on December 1.
“The NT Aboriginal Tourism Accelerator Program is more than just a program; it’s about empowering our First Nations entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, and preserving our deep cultural heritage that is infused in the land, sea and sky of this country,” said Arrernte woman Stella de Cos who is director of community and customer experience at IBA.
“Expanding the opportunities for our Aboriginal businesses to share culture and country with the rest of the world is ultimately a success for everyone involved.”
“Our people are the original and ongoing custodians of this land, and the deep understanding and knowledge they have is what makes these opportunities so important.”
More information about the program can be found here.
