First Nations tourism businesses in Victoria will be eligible for grants of up to $125,000 under a new state government program designed to strengthen the sector.

The First Peoples Tourism Growth Program invites expressions of interest from First Nations-owned and operated businesses, Traditional Owners, Traditional Owner Corporations, and Registered Aboriginal Parties. The funding will support training, the development of new tourism experiences, and assistance to grow and promote businesses.

In 2023, more than 500,000 people participated in First Nations tourism experiences in Victoria, contributing $1.3 billion to the economy, according to the government.

"Across the country, First Nations businesses and organisations have a higher social return on investment than many businesses in mainstream industries – for every dollar of revenue spent, First Nations enterprises create about $4.41 of economic and social value," Senator Jana Stewart wrote in National Indigenous Times earlier this year.

"They're also 40 to 100 times more likely to employ First Nations Australians," she said.

Victorian Acting Minister for Treaty and First Peoples, Ben Carroll, said: "People come to Victoria from across the world to appreciate 65,000 years of rich and strong First Peoples cultures, histories and practices — this program will see these stories and experiences reach even more visitors."

The grants will also support cultural heritage stewardship, including projects to document traditional songs, dances, and ceremonies; digitise and archive cultural knowledge; and record cultural practices.

Funding can also go towards purchasing or leasing assets or equipment needed for current or newly developed tourism products.

"We are proud to launch this new program to support First Nations businesses to grow and reach more travellers who want to learn about, engage in and embark on First Nations-led experiences as a part of their travels," Acting Tourism Minister Danny Pearson said.

The initiative aligns with the state's broader goals of promoting self-determination and advancing Treaty through the Yuma Yirramboi Strategy (Invest in Tomorrow), and ensuring Victoria's tourism economy authentically reflects 65,000 years of First Peoples' history and culture.

More information can be found at https://business.vic.gov.au/grants-and-programs/first-peoples-tourism-growth-program.