New grant recipients strengthen First Peoples tourism across Victoria

News
Published: 20 October 2026

Twenty two Victorian First Peoples-owned and operated businesses have received a grant under the First Peoples Tourism Growth Program.

The program recognises the important contribution First Peoples tourism makes to Victoria's visitor economy. It supports First Peoples businesses to create authentic and meaningful visitor experiences.

Grants up to $125,000 will help enrich their tourism offerings, create new tourism opportunities and support business growth.

What was the grant for?

To invest in:

  • the development of First Peoples tourism offerings
  • workforce capability
  • cultural heritage stewardship
  • equipment and infrastructure that support sustainable business growth.

Who was eligible?

  • Victorian First Peoples-owned and operated businesses
  • Traditional Owners
  • Traditional Owner Corporations
  • Registered Aboriginal Parties

What will the funding help deliver?

Blak Brews Commercial Kitchen & Café Upgrade (Blak Brews) - Grovedale

  • design and fit out of a new venue with commercial kitchen to increase production capacity
  • acquisition of commercial appliances to improve efficiency and capacity
  • development of a website, booking system, CRM and marketing content.

BarryBala Bus Tours (Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Education) - Wangaratta

  • engaging a consultant to develop and deliver cultural tours and workforce training and upskilling
  • development of promotional materials for the BarryBala Bus Tour.

Willum Warrain Cultural Tours (Willum Warrain Aboriginal Association) - Hastings

  • design and development of promotional materials and merchandise
  • acquisition of cultural assets including possum cloaks, plants and fish
  • design and installation of visitor and storage infrastructure including signage, seating, sculptures and display cabinets
  • training new staff members.

Djaara Sky Country Night-time Tours and Tour Pod (Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation) - on Dja Dja Wurrung Country

  • acquisition and fit out of a mobile tour pod for the Djaara Sky Country Night-time Tour offering, including:
    • a Djaara Sky Country Night-time Tour
    • Djaara tour guide training
    • marketing collateral and digital marketing content
    • attendance at industry familiarisation events.

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Victoria is backing First Peoples-led tourism to build a more inclusive and culturally rich visitor economy.

The First Peoples Tourism Growth Program builds on the Victorian Government’s Experience Victoria 2033 strategic plan.

For a full list of successful recipients for the First Peoples Tourism Growth Program on the Tourism Industry Support website.