Victoria's Aboriginal Tourism Development Plan 2006-2009
Message from Chair of ATV
Aboriginal Tourism is an under valued asset in Victoria. All the research tells us that many international visitors and domestic travellers are seeking an Indigenous experience. What many have not realised is that they can gain this experience right here in Victoria.
Aboriginal Tourism Victoria, as the industry peak body, has worked in partnership with Tourism Victoria to develop the Victorian Aboriginal Tourism Development Plan for 2006 – 2009.
The Plan is a first step in a journey to strengthen the Indigenous tourism sector.
This strategy is dedicated to providing a support mechanism to this industry including marketing assistance, business mentoring and assisting new and established Indigenous tourism businesses. It is designed to achieve greater economic sustainability as well as to provide the opportunity to educate the wider community about our unique culture.
Most importantly, the strategy captures the diversity, uniqueness and richness of Victorian Aboriginal tourism and what it has to offer as tourism experiences as an important aspect of everyday life in Victoria.
From Cultural Welcomes at major events to soft adventure tours, Indigenous tourism in Victoria offers an array of experiences that ranges from fine bush food dining, music performances, art displays to heritage walks that any tourist visiting our state can enjoy.
Victorian Indigenous people have lived in harmony with the land for thousands of years and have a strong connection to it. For Aboriginal people, both urban and rural, the land is central to our identity. It has a strong spiritual connection that has provided a meaningful lifestyle for Indigenous Australians since time immemorial. Tourism provides our Indigenous communities with a wonderful opportunity to determine how we wish to share and showcase our heritage and culture.
For Indigenous tourism to be successful, the challenge before all of us is to be creative, be prepared to step outside our own comfort zone and to recognise that partnerships need to be created across all sections of government and private enterprises. This Plan is an important first step.
JASON EADES
Chair ATV