Perth has become a meeting point for Aboriginal tourism leaders, business operators, investors and industry representatives from across Australia and overseas as the Australian Indigenous Tourism Conference (AITC) 2026 concludes its three-day program on 5 November.

The conference was held from 3 November to 5 November at Optus Stadium in Perth. It brought together people working in Indigenous tourism to discuss the industry's development, share successful business experiences and explore new opportunities for collaboration and investment.

The event was organised by the Western Australian Indigenous Tourism Operators Council (WAITOC), which represents Aboriginal tourism operators in Western Australia. The conference provided a platform for tourism businesses, researchers, government representatives and investors to exchange ideas and build professional connections.

A major focus of the conference was the growth of Aboriginal-owned tourism businesses and the importance of ensuring that Indigenous communities remain at the centre of tourism development. Aboriginal tourism offers visitors opportunities to learn about Australia's First Nations cultures, traditions, histories and connections to Country through experiences led by Indigenous communities.

The Western Australian Government is supporting the sector through its $20 million Jina: Western Australian Aboriginal Tourism Action Plan 2026–2030. The initiative aims to help develop Aboriginal tourism businesses, create employment opportunities, strengthen regional economies and increase the visibility of Indigenous cultural experiences.

According to figures highlighted during the conference, Aboriginal tourism businesses contributed approximately $55.1 million to Western Australia's economy during 2023–2024. This contribution demonstrates the economic potential of the sector and its role in supporting tourism diversification.

Western Australian Premier Roger Cook said the conference provided an important opportunity to showcase Aboriginal tourism experiences and strengthen the businesses developing them. He emphasised the importance of creating employment while allowing Aboriginal communities to share their cultures on their own terms and maintain cultural practices for future generations.

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch also highlighted the importance of Indigenous leadership, entrepreneurship and community participation in achieving long-term economic growth. He said partnerships developed through the conference could help create lasting opportunities for Aboriginal businesses.

WAITOC chief executive Robert Taylor described the conference as an opportunity for tourism operators to connect, share knowledge and establish partnerships that could benefit the industry.

The event also highlighted the importance of investment, business development and international connections in building a stronger Indigenous tourism sector. Bringing together operators and industry representatives from different regions allows businesses to exchange experiences and explore ways to reach more visitors.

For Perth and the wider Western Australian tourism industry, AITC 2026 has provided an opportunity to showcase Aboriginal-led experiences and strengthen the state's position as a destination for cultural tourism.

The conference's broader message is that tourism growth can deliver economic benefits while supporting cultural knowledge, community leadership and opportunities for future generations.