$20 million to grow Aboriginal tourism opportunities

 

New Aboriginal tourism experiences will be developed and WA’s unique Camping with Custodians program will be expanded through funding announced today in the State Budget.

 

The $20 million Aboriginal Tourism Fund, which includes $12.1 million through the Royalties for Regions Fund, will allow for the development of new Camping with Custodians campgrounds, and support for the existing network. It will also allow for the development of new experiences in areas of high demand.

 

Executive Director Destination Development Renata Lowe said Tourism WA will be working closely with the Western Australian Indigenous Tourism Operators Council (WAITOC) and the Aboriginal tourism industry to develop new experiences, and support business operators.

 

“We were proud to launch the Jina Plan earlier this year, which identifies actions and opportunities for us to grow this important part of our tourism industry.

 

“Right now, more than 80 per cent of people visiting WA want to take part in an authentic Aboriginal tourism experience, but only 17per cent* actually do it. It shows there is a huge demand for these experiences,” Renata said.

 

A Registration of Interest for Aboriginal groups who would like to develop and operate a Camping with Custodians site is still open for applications.

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