WA develops strategy to boost indigenous employment and tourism

A Western Australian strategy to help Aboriginal people enter and pursue careers in the tourism industry has been released in Perth. It aims to develop commercially viable tourism ventures showcasing authentic Aboriginal culture and experiences.

Tourism Minister Mark McGowan says the WA Government is committed to building Western Australia’s tourism industry as it is a major economic driver for WA, creating jobs and opportunities, particularly in regional areas.Visitors to WA want an authentic travel experience – ‘the real thing’ – and indigenous tourism plays a major role in meeting that demand.

The strategy was developed with a whole-of-government approach involving nine key agencies. The Western Australian Indigenous Tourism Operators Committee (WAITOC) was also instrumental in the development of the strategy.

The Minister particularly urged Aboriginal people in WA to read and discuss the strategy and make comment in the interests of ensuring indigenous tourism success.

The draft Aboriginal Tourism Development Strategy is open for public comment until September 30. Copies of the full report and details on how to make comment are available at www.aboriginalstrategy.westernaustralia.com.