TOURISM NT ABORIGINAL TOURISM UPDATE - KEEPING YOU INFORMED || VIEW ONLINE

Expression of interest open - Northern Territory Aboriginal Tourism Business Accelerator Program

Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) and Tourism & Events NT are providing an opportunity for Northern Territory (NT) based majority owned Aboriginal businesses, organisations and Aboriginal people residing the NT to gain an understanding and the skills to develop or grow an Aboriginal tourism business. The Program will:

Be 1 week a month from February 2026 to June 2026, which will include a series of 5 face blocks focused on NT Aboriginal tourism specific business and tourism product development sessions.
Provide you with the dedicated facilitators and personal business coach supporting your journey during the program until October 2026.
Provide networking opportunities with the industry specialists and tourism operators.
Give you access to attending a tourism industry specific forum and conference.

NEWS

Out Now - Connect To Country

Tourism Australia's 10th issue of Discover Aboriginal Experiences (DAE) digital magazine Connect to Country is now available.

The magazine features engaging stories and captivation videos and images with links back to the DAE website and directly to members.

Airport Development Group (ADG) releases its annual Indigneous engagement report

The 2024-25 annual report is now available. The report outlines the progress and outcomes achieved over the past year as part of their ongoing commitment to Indigenous engagement and reconciliation.

This year's report highlights tangible results across 3 pillars of intent, Indigenous participation, Tourism Enhancement and Cultural Engagement and Relationships, reflecting ADG's continued efforts to create meaningful and lasting opportunities for Aboriginal peoples across the NT.

Now open - Airport Development Group Community Grants

Organisations based in Darwin, Tennant Creek, Alice Springs, and surrounding regions are eligible to apply. Applications can be lodged by inclusive, grassroots, community-led organisations that focus on education, environment, health, innovation, arts, or culture. Applications close 18 December 2025.

Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) launches inaugural Reconciliation Action Plan

The ATEC has launched its inaugural Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan at Meeting Place in Perth, marking a significant step in the organisation's commitment to advancing reconciliation within Australia's tourism industry.

INDUSTRY OPPORTUNITIES

EOI open - Glamping experience at the Territory Wildlife Park

The Territory Wildlife Park in Berry Springs invites visionary operators, businesses and interested parties to present innovative proposals to develop an environmentally sensitive and sustainable glamping experience within the park. EOIs close on 15 December 2025.

For further information contact [email protected] or call 08 8988 7219

Unlocking Aboriginal Tourism Development Funding Round 4

Tourism & Events NT is providing a total of up to $13,500 (excluding GST) in consultancy services to NT based Aboriginal Territorians and majority owned Aboriginal businesses and organisations. To support the development of bookable experiences and quality of experiences and product there is a need for assistance to access services to navigate, understand and identify tourism development funding opportunities.

Aboriginal Tourism Grant Program Round 9

Tourism & Events NT is providing a non-competitive funding pool of $500,000 (excluding GST). The funding is to assist NT majority owned Aboriginal business and organisations to develop Aboriginal cultural tourism experiences and tourism product that encourages visitors to travel to the NT and stay longer.

Aboriginal Tourism Development in NT Parks and Reserves Grant Program

Tourism & Events NT is providing a non-competitive funding pool of $400,000 (excluding GST). The funding is to assist NT majority owned Aboriginal business and organisations to develop tourism product in NT parks and reserves to enable Aboriginal cultural experiences and tourism product for park visitors.

Now open- Alice Springs Revival and Resilience Grant Program

The regions' visitor economy has faced challenges in recent years. The $1 million program aims to support small tourism businesses in the Mparntwe/Alice Springs and Tjoritja/MacDonnell tourism region.

Expression of interest open - Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF)

The DAAF will be held on Larrakia Country at the Darwin Convention Centre this 6 - 9 August 2026 – marking DAAF's 20th Anniversary. With this milestone year comes a vibrant Public Program featuring artist talks, demonstrations, masterclasses, children’s activities and cultural performances. Expressions of interest to take part in the public program that runs alongside the DAAF, and to be part of our new suite of digital programs that will take place throughout the year are now open.

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Seven Emu Camping Fishing

The ultimate self-drive wilderness adventure on a genuine Australian outback cattle station. On the coastal waters of the Gulf of Carpentaria. The fishing is a real highlight of Seven Emu and although Barramundi are the most targeted fish, other local species including Spanish Mackerel, Giant Trevally, Black Jewfish and Golden Snapper. Mud crabs are another favourite for the campfire, and of course out on the ocean are plenty of reef fish.

Timeless Land 3 Gorge Tour

Prepare for a truly memorable experience as you travel through time and the first 3 gorges. Marvel at the altering fractures and sheer rock face walls as the scenery becomes more striking as you head further into the gorge. Before you return, freshen up with a swim and some morning or afternoon refreshments.