Major investment to grow First Nations tourism and strengthen Victoria's visitor economy

Major investment to grow First Nations tourism and strengthen Victoria's visitor economy Scott Kimber Mon, 14/09/2026 - 07:29 The Albanese and Carroll Labor Governments are co-investing $3.3 million through the Strategic Indigenous Tourism Projects (SITP) initiative to deliver the First Peoples Tourism Industry Strengthening Program in Victoria. The funding will enable Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs) to develop and implement cultural tourism plans aimed at boosting job opportunities and economic development across the state. RAPs are Traditional Owner groups, legally recognised under the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 (the Act), with responsibilities for managing and protecting Aboriginal Cultural Heritage on Country. Under the Act, RAPs are the primary guardians, keepers and knowledge holders of Aboriginal Cultural Heritage on their Country and in their region. The First Peoples Tourism Industry Strengthening Program will enable Victoria’s RAPs to undertake analysis and develop a cultural tourism plan or implement an existing economic development strategy, action plan or tourism plan. This will support RAPs to pursue economic development activities and improve their c