Grants of up to $300,000 are available to help groups boost Indigenous tourism. Photo: Visit Victoria.
The Victorian Government has announced $3.6 million in grants to strengthen Indigenous tourism.
First Nations groups can apply for grants under the First Peoples Tourism Industry Strengthening Program to either create or expand tourism experiences in the state.
The state’s 12 registered Aboriginal parties can apply for grants of up to $300,000.
The scheme is part of the Labor Government’s Experience Victoria 2033 plan to bolster the tourism sector through five central components: Indigenous-led experiences, arts and culture, wellness, food and drink, and nature.
“People and families travelling to Victoria continue to visit our unique First Nations tourism experiences because they’re interested in learning about First Peoples’ culture and knowledge,” Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said.
The government said that in 2023, 500,000 people visited the state and participated in First Nations tourism experiences, spending $1.3 billion.
“We’re backing the growth and expansion of First Nations tourism offerings and giving more people the chance to experience them – while backing local communities and First Nations jobs,” Mr Dimopoulos said.
The government said the initiative would bolster the state’s tourism sector and support Indigenous communities.
Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Natalie Hutchins said: “This will support First Nations communities in Victoria, while also fuelling further growth across our tourism sector.”
Applications are open until 10 April, 2025. See the government website for more information.
