TOURISM & EVENTS NT ABORIGINAL TOURISM UPDATE - KEEPING YOU INFORMED || April 2026

Northern Territory Visitor Economy Strategy 2032

The Northern Territory's (NT) visitor economy is one of our most powerful levers for achieving the Territory's priorities - from rebuilding the economy to strengthening communities and restoring lifestyle.

The Strategy recognises the Territory's spirit and the value propsition that Aboriginal culture is at the heart of the Territory. The Strategy sets a clear direction towards 2032 guiding collective action that is focused on what matters most - a thriving, year-round visitor economy to power the Territory's future.

NEWS

Now open - Brolga NT nominations

The Brolga NT Tourism Awards (Awards) is the official tourism awards program for the NT. The awards recognise tourism businesses that strive for excellence in every area of their operation. Majority owned Aboriginal tourism buisness are encouraged to nominate for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander tourism experiences category.

Record crowds kick off Parrtjima 2026

Parrtjima 2026 has celebrated its biggest opening weekend yet, recording the largest opening weekend attendance in the festival's history, including the second-largest opening night, as visitors flocked to the Red Centre. Across Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the festival attracted nearly 8,300 attendees.

Online business essentials workshops

Indigenous Business Australia is hosting business essentials workshops for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who want to increase their knowledge of business fundamentals and take the next steps towards business ownership. The 2-3 hour workshops are free and delivered live online.

The Yolngu Host

Experience East Arnhem Land like a local on a guided tour with the Yolngu Host. Remote East Arnhem Land is home to striking coastlines, white sandy beaches and strong Yolngu culture. Located in the northeast of the NT, East Arnhem Land is one of Australia's most pristine and untouched destinations.

Tjarnintja Birdwatching and Cultural Tours

Tjarnintja is a 100% Aboriginal owned and operated cultural tourism business situated in Arrernte Country, Central Australia.The tours specialise in Arrernte culture, language and knowledge of birds, plants and local landscapes. Tours are available at the Olive Pink Botanic Garden Alice Springs and Standley Chasm.

Industry Webinar

The next Industry Webinar on 30 April, from 5.00 to 5.45pm. The webinar will provide the latest intelligence on impacts arising from the current Middle East situation and industry experts will share what they are seeing in the market and how they are managing.

This is an opportunity to hear directly from Tourism and Events NT, industry experts, ask questions and ensure you are equipped with the up-to-date and practical information as we collectively navigate these times.

To register, click here

Applications open - Tourism Restart Funding

The NT has been significantly impacted by severe weather events in the lead up to the 2026 tourism seasons. Impacted businesses can apply for a one-off $5,000 grant (exc. GST) to assist with repairs and replacements ahead of the 2026 peak tourism season. The program has been designed to be simple and fast, with applications being assessed as they are received. Applications close 8 May 2026.

Applications Open - NT Experience Fund

The NT Experience Fund supports the growth and diversification of the Territory's tourism offerings to meet visitor needs and create connected itineraries that showcase people, stories and landscapes. Tourism and hospitality businesses can apply for funding to deliver new products or experiences aligned with the Territory's value proposition. Applications close 7 May 2026.

Applications open - Business Start-Up Grant and Business Growth Grant

Aboriginal Investment NT are supporting Aboriginal businesses in the NT by providing start-up and business growths grants. Applicants can apply for up to $100,000 through the business start-up grant and $150,000 through the business growth grant.

Applications open - Qantas Regional Grants

The Qantas Regional Grants program is back, offering $2 million in support to Australian-based communities and projects that are looking to benefit our country's regional areas. The grants aim to help these communities sustain brighter futures by providing financial, flight and marketing support to charities, organisations, projects and individuals. Applications close 10 May 2026.

Applications open - Regional Investment Readiness and Impact Fund

Regional Development Australia NT has announced support to help regional NT projects progress from advanced planning to an investment-ready stage. The program supports organisations to complete the critical “last mile” activities required to secure major funding from government, philanthropic and private investors.

EVENTS

Barunga Festival

An iconic family friendly event on the national festival calendar the festival will be held from 5 to 7 June 2026. One of the festival’s highlights is the Barunga sports and cultural program, which includes traditional and modern sport. The program also includes cultural activities, such as storytelling and bush medicine workshops.

Garrmalang Festival

A celebration of Aboriginal cultures in the heart of Darwin City. The festival returns from 12 to 13 June 2026, with a program of free and ticketed events celebrating age-old ingenuity on a contemporary stage. Enjoy a celebration of Aboriginal cultures at the AANT Centre, Darwin's premier live entertainment venue.

TOURISM & EVENTS NT WEB

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