The importance of Indigenous tourism
For over 20 years, QTIC has been promoting and supporting Queensland's Indigenous tourism sector. By working closely with First Nations business operators, Traditional Owners, government bodies, and communities across the state, QTIC has spent two decades advocating for a strong Indigenous presence within Queensland tourism.
Through the establishment of projects such as the Indigenous Employment Champions Network, the Employee Network, and the First Nations Tourism Plan, QTIC has led the way in progressing our state's Indigenous tourism industry.
QTIC's steadfast support of First Nations tourism stems from an understanding of the critical importance in providing authentic cultural experiences for guests on Country. In recent years, the consumer appetite for cultural experiences has grown significantly, and as home to the world's oldest living cultures, Queensland is poised to be a world leader in delivering rich cultural visitor experiences.
Currently, Indigenous tourism experiences account for 2 million visitors to Queensland each year, with 12% of all international visitors to our state participating in First Nations activities and events, contributing to the annual $5.8 billion that Indigenous tourism generates worldwide.
Whilst the significant dollar value identifies the extent of the opportunity in promoting Indigenous tourism, QTIC's commitment to First Nations tourism extends far beyond the bottom line.
Promoting cultural experiences for our guests on Country is an important step towards honouring the rich history of our state. By sharing Indigenous stories, experiences and histories with both domestic and international consumers, our tourism industry and First Nations operators can assist in promoting a wider understanding of First Nations culture and of our country. Every beach, desert or forest vista, the very biodiversity that we appreciate and share as a tourism experience, is the direct product of thousands of years of Indigenous management.