- The Hon Ken Wyatt AM, MP, Minister for Indigenous Australians
The Morrison Government has opened the competitive tender process to facilitate the design and delivery of a $10 million National Indigenous Tourism Mentoring Program, as COVID-19 restrictions affecting the industry begin to lift.
Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Hon Ken Wyatt AM, MP, said the program will provide one-on-one support to Indigenous tourism business owners as they look to both recover and adjust to economic, social and travel changes in the wake of the pandemic.
“COVID-19 has taken a toll on all Australian tourism businesses – particularly Indigenous businesses relying heavily on overseas markets.
“The National Indigenous Tourism Mentoring Program is a practical way to help Indigenous business owners navigate the resurgence of the sector and adjust to post-pandemic travel and spending patterns.
“Industry champions will help Indigenous-owned businesses to build business skills, fortify business models, and develop new products to attract visitors.
“They will provide individualised mentoring, offer alternative perspectives, and support operators to explore the strengths of their unique selling position.
“As we emerge from the pandemic, we should be asking not just how we can appeal to new markets, but how we can encourage a more culturally-enhanced, educational and engaging tourism experience.
“For Indigenous tourism operators it’s a chance to ensure visitors gain the highest appreciation of the country they walk on.
“Through this competitive process, we invite all providers who believe they can collaborate with Indigenous business owners to develop unique experiences, deliver more employment, and grow the sector, to apply for funding.”
Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Dan Tehan said the program would support Indigenous jobs and businesses in tourism.
“Domestic and international tourists want to learn about and enjoy Australia’s rich Indigenous history, culture and traditions,” Mr Tehan said.
“Our Government is supporting Indigenous tourism operators so they can continue offering unique experiences and also provide employment and business opportunities in their communities.”
The mentoring program is part of the Government’s $40 million Indigenous Tourism Fund.
Details are available on AusTender, www.tenders.gov.au, and more information about the fund is available on the National Indigenous Australians Agency website, niaa.gov.au/ITF
