First Nations Women In Tourism Australia (FNWITA) is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to empowering and supporting First Nations women in the tourism industry. Their mission is to foster a sense of identity, diversity and cultural connection by creating pathways for Indigenous women to become leaders and entrepreneurs within the tourism sector.
The organisation was formed in November 2024, and their first event, “Galinyala (Port Lincoln) Cultural Tourism”, addressed the need for greater representation and leadership of First Nations women in the tourism industry, particularly in remote, rural and regional communities.
Local community members expressed interest in cultural tourism as a viable career path, but faced significant barriers, including limited access to employment opportunities and business development. The rise in Aboriginal tourism presents a key opportunity, as highlighted by Destination NSW, which notes that Aboriginal cultural tourism is growing significantly. However, without targeted initiatives, many First Nations women will continue to be excluded from the economic benefits that tourism and entrepreneurship can bring to remote and regional communities.
FNWITA used an $8,900 grant from the Strengthening Rural Communities program (funded by a private donor) to run a one-day cultural tourism event in Port Lincoln, SA, a remote location with a vibrant First Nations community. First Nations women came together to share their cultural knowledge, learn tourism skills and build leadership and entrepreneurial capacity. Activities included cultural storytelling, tourism skills workshops and networking opportunities, designed to enhance the skills, confidence and sense of identity of the participants.
The one-day event focussed on building economic strength and sustainability by promoting cultural tourism as a pathway for job creation and economic development. Participants learnt how to integrate their cultural heritage into tourism experiences, as well as gained skills related to the tourism and hospitality industries.
“Many participants described it as the best cultural tourism event they had attended, highlighting the safe, relaxed, all-women environment that encouraged open conversation, learning and connection.
Daina Walker, Co-founder and Director of FNWITA
“The group was diverse, including young women, Aunties, Elders, non-Indigenous allies from a range of industries, and representatives from local government and visitor centres. Overall, the event achieved the grant’s purpose by creating pathways for leadership, enhancing cultural tourism, and celebrating cultural recognition, leaving participants inspired and empowered.”