The $4.6 million Aboriginal Tourism Development Program (ATDP) is funded by Royalties for Regions and will see 17 Aboriginal tourism businesses across the State receive advice and mentoring over the next three years.
Member for Warren-Blackwood, Terry Redman, said Aboriginal tourism had been identified as an important sector in the tourism sector.
“There are some magnificent Aboriginal tourism experiences in the Warren-Blackwood region that offer a one-of-a-kind tourism opportunity for visitors,” Mr Redman said.
Each business chosen will work one-on-one with tourism business experts to fine-tune their products and operations, with business coaches taking a fresh look at all aspects of the business and implementing an action plan.
“In this region, Poornarti Aboriginal Tours will take part in the ATDP. Poornarti offer hands on interactive experiences and activities that deepen understanding of traditional Noongar culture and history.”
“The ATDP will help to harness the potential of Aboriginal tourism, allowing regional tourism businesses to grow and develop, while providing visitors with a unique, authentic, Aboriginal experience when they come to WA,” Mr Redman said.
The ATDP will also include a major marketing push to promote extraordinary and unique Aboriginal tourism experiences to visitors.
Mr Redman said the program would help participating businesses improve profits and create opportunities for employment and skills development.
“Aboriginal tourism helps protect and preserve traditional culture whilst also motivating visitors to increase their length of stay across regional and remote WA,” Mr Redman said.
“This Royalties for Regions investment will help create sustainable Aboriginal tourism businesses and contribute to a strengthened regional economy.”
The ATDP is implemented by Tourism WA and the WA Indigenous Tourism Operators Council (WAITOC). For more information visit www.waitoc.com.