Mining and Indigenous tourism in Northern Australia

The first of its kind undertaken, this study used a case study methodology to investigate the opportunities for using ‘soft’ and ‘hard’ mining project infrastructure to support the development of indigenous tourism operations in northern Australia. Key study objectives were to:

•Assess the potential to develop existing natural and indigenous cultural tourism resources in areas proximate to mining operations;

•Identify how mining operations could support indigenous tourism ventures in these areas; and

•Assess the willingness of mining companies and indigenous communities to cooperate in such initiatives.

The findings of the study will be of use to indigenous individuals and groups seeking to develop sustainable tourism opportunities, mining companies, policymakers and the tourism industry more generally. The study has also identified several issues requiring further research.