Perth has welcomed Indigenous tourism leaders from across the world this week for the Australian Indigenous Tourism Conference (AITC).
Held from 3 November to 5 November at Optus Stadium, AITC 2026 showcased Aboriginal tourism success stories, share knowledge, and explore new opportunities for the sector.
The three-day event brought together operators, businesses, investors, researchers, government, and industry representatives to build connections and explore opportunities for collaboration and investment.
“The Australian Indigenous Tourism Conference has been an important opportunity to showcase the strength of Aboriginal tourism and the incredible experiences being developed across Western Australia,” said WA Premier and Tourism, Trade and Investment Minister, Roger Cook.
“My government wants to see Aboriginal tourism continue to grow, creating local jobs, and supporting businesses while helping Aboriginal communities share their culture on their own terms and sustain cultural practices for future generations.
“Growing Aboriginal tourism will also help diversify our economy and ensure more of the benefits of tourism flow through to local communities.”
WA Aboriginal Affairs Minister, Don Punch said Aboriginal leadership, economic participation, and community development were vital to the long-term prosperity of Western Australia.
“The relationships and opportunities created through events like this help drive sustainable economic growth, support Aboriginal entrepreneurship, and deliver lasting cultural and community benefits across our State,” he said.
Organised by the Western Australian Indigenous Tourism Operators Council (WAITOC), the event is supported by the State Government through Tourism Western Australia as part of the $20 million Jina: Western Australian Aboriginal Tourism Action Plan 2026-2030.
Jina is supporting the development of Aboriginal tourism businesses and experiences across WA, helping create jobs, strengthening local economies, and showcasing Aboriginal culture to visitors.
“AITC 2026 is an opportunity for Aboriginal tourism operators from across Australia to connect, share knowledge, and build partnerships that create lasting economic and cultural benefits,” said WAITOC CEO, Robert Taylor.
“Hosting the conference in Perth allows Western Australia to showcase the strength, diversity, and quality of Aboriginal-led visitor experiences while ensuring Aboriginal voices remain at the centre of the industry’s growth.”
In 2023-2024, Aboriginal tourism businesses contributed $55.1 million to the WA economy, highlighting the sector’s potential to support regional development and diversify the economy.
Find out more at aitc.org.au.
