TTF takes 2 key steps towards Indigenous reconciliation

Indigenous Australian People dancing to didgeridoo musical instrument sound rhythm in Queensland, Australia.
Edited by Travel Weekly


    The Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF) Australia has released its Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) and its First Nations Tourism Hub as part of its commitment to supporting First Nations tourism and reconciliation in 2024.

    Speaking ahead of the Reflect RAP’s unveiling at TTF’s Industry Luncheon with NSW Premier Chris Minns in Sydney, TTF CEO Margy Osmond said it marked a proud day for the tourism industry and its dedication to First Nations communities.

    “What a privilege it is to present the Tourism and Transport Forum’s Reflect RAP. We are honoured to be working towards a meaningful reconciliation journey with First Nations people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, work and travel,” Osmond said.

    “We’re committed to ensuring First Nations tourism can grow and thrive, so that all international visitors to Australia, as well as domestic travellers, have the opportunity to fully appreciate, understand and experience the world’s oldest continuous living culture.”

    Wintjiri Wiru Kurpany at Uluru with Voyages Indigenous Tourism

    NSW Premier Chris Minns welcomed the announcement and the industry’s commitment to First Nations tourism, particularly in New South Wales.

    “Congratulations to the Tourism & Transport Forum for launching their Reconciliation Action Plan and prioritising support for First Nations tourism and reconciliation,” Premier Minns said.

    “The NSW Government is working closely with industry to ensure First Nations tourism receives the support it needs to flourish, so we can continue to offer rich and diverse First Nations experiences, which are increasingly in demand from domestic and international visitors to our state.”

    Osmond added: “As the peak body for the tourism & transport sectors, this is not just an important commitment for our organisation, but for the industry more broadly. We look forward to working closely with our members on their reconciliation journeys and ensuring we all take genuine steps to work together, listen and learn from First Nations people.

    Indigenous guide leads a tour group in Tasmania

    “We want to create an environment where First Nations people can flourish, by sharing their rich, vibrant and diverse stories, traditions and connection to Country. By going on this journey with the support of our members, we believe we can bring people closer together and build a sector that is truly contributing to the wellbeing of First Nations communities.”

    TTF joins a network of more than 2,700 organisations which have formalised their commitment to reconciliation through the RAP program since 2006, across the corporate, government and not-for-profit sectors.

    TTF’s First Nations Tourism Hub has been designed to help members of the tourism, transport and aviation sectors engage with First Nations people across Australia.

    The online portal provides a comprehensive guide to build thriving partnerships and create sustainable First Nations tourism experiences.

    It includes information on Key Organisations across Australia, Understanding Drivers of Change, Navigating the Land and Traditional Owners, Respectful Communication, Procurement & Accreditation, Improving Cultural Awareness and Starting your Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

    The resource also includes video interviews with champions of First Nations tourism, including Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia, YHA Australia, The NRMA, Intrepid Travel, Tourism Australia and Reconciliation Australia.

    TTF also released a new artwork commissioned by Bayadherra, which has been incorporated into both the RAP design and online hub.

    TTF and Bayadherra’s new artwork

    Founded by proud Aboriginal Yorta Yorta siblings Luke and Siena Tieri, Bayadherra’s mission as young, emerging artists is to promote reconciliation and cultural understanding.

    Daborra Iyawa, which means ‘pathway as one’ in Yorta Yorta language, depicts community collaboration and inclusion between TTF and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

    (Featured Image: People dancing to didgeridoo musical instrument sound rhythm in Queensland, Australia – iStock/chameleonseye)

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