NT Aboriginal Tourism Development Support Program: Round 4

Purpose and Program Overview

The Aboriginal Tourism Development Support Grant Program NT – Round 4 is a beacon of hope for the Northern Territory’s Aboriginal tourism sector. It is designed to advance the sector by providing targeted funding to Aboriginal-owned businesses and organisations. The program aims to foster the creation and enhancement of unique Aboriginal cultural tourism experiences, supporting the Northern Territory Aboriginal Tourism Strategy’s vision of inspiring visitors to engage with one of the world’s oldest living cultures.

A total funding pool of $200,000 is available in this round, with individual grants ranging from $10,000 to $30,000. The grant provides crucial support for professional services for feasibility and business planning, guiding eligible applicants to develop robust tourism offerings and infrastructure that attract visitors and encourage more extended stays.

By supporting feasibility studies, business planning, and applications for land use, this program plays a pivotal role in enhancing the capacity and sustainability of Aboriginal tourism businesses. It underscores the value of these businesses, contributing to economic growth and cultural preservation in the Northern Territory.

Key Grant Details

• Grant amount: $10,000 minimum, $30,000 maximum per project.
• Application period: Open now; closes 6 March 2026 or earlier if funds are fully subscribed.
• Eligible business types: Aboriginal-owned businesses and organisations operating in the Northern Territory tourism sector.
• Required co-contributions: Not specified.
• Location: Northern Territory, Australia.

Priority Sectors

The program targets the Aboriginal tourism sector within the Northern Territory explicitly.

Funding Scope

• Minimum grant: $10,000.
• Maximum grant: $30,000.
• Funding categories:

• • Feasibility studies and business planning for new or enhanced Aboriginal cultural tourism experiences.

• • Feasibility and planning for infrastructure supporting tourism experiences.

• Assistance with land council or land management authority applications, which are the processes for obtaining permission to use specific land for tourism purposes, including comprehensive business plans, is also eligible for funding.
• Eligible funding duration: Project timelines must be detailed in the application; funding is available until the program pool is exhausted or the closing date is reached.

Eligibility Criteria

• At least 50% Aboriginal ownership.
• Legally constituted business or organisation registered in Australia.
• Located and operating in the Northern Territory.
• No outstanding grant repayments or unmet obligations from previous funding with the Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade, including Tourism NT.
• If an Aboriginal Corporation or Association, written confirmation of intent to apply (letter from at least two Directors or meeting minutes).
• Actively trading tourism businesses must:

• • Be listed in the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse or apply for listing.

• • Be a member or apply for membership in a relevant industry association (e.g., Tourism Top End, Tourism Central Australia, Hospitality NT).

• • Employ Northern Territory residents.

Eligible Activities and Expenses

• Hiring experts and specialists for:

• • Feasibility studies and business planning for Aboriginal cultural tourism products or experiences.

• • Feasibility and planning for new or improved infrastructure supporting tourism.

• • Preparation and submission of land council or land management authority applications, including financial and marketing plans.

• All applications must include a quote detailing the scope of work and project timeline.

Assessment Process

• Type: Competitive; applications are assessed against others by a judging panel.
• Key evaluation criteria:

• • Project merit and alignment with the Northern Territory Aboriginal Tourism Strategy.

• • Strategic value and potential to attract visitors and extend stays.

• • Value for money and quality of the business case.

Recent Program Updates

Round 4 is currently open, with a total funding pool of $200,000 available. Applications close on 6 March 2026 or earlier if the funding pool is fully subscribed. This round continues the program’s focus on supporting the Northern Territory Aboriginal Tourism Strategy.

Application Tips

• Review all eligibility criteria carefully before submitting your application.
• Prepare business plans, quotes, and supporting documents in advance to ensure a seamless process.
• Ensure the proposal aligns with the Northern Territory Aboriginal Tourism Strategy.
• Demonstrate organisational capability, project outcomes, and community benefits.
• Consider engaging an accredited government grants consultant for support with your application.

Where to Get Help For the Aboriginal Tourism Development Support Grant Program NT

Consider consulting with a professional grant specialist, such as Pattens Group. We offer initial assessments to review your business’s eligibility and evaluate how well your project aligns with the grant’s objectives. You can also visit relevant government websites for application templates and further guidance.