Abstract (150 Words)
The purpose of this study was to examine the extent to which sustainable development principles underpin Australian State and Territory governments’ indigenous tourism policy and planning documents. Although tourism is increasingly being used as an instrument to provide new economic opportunities for Indigenous communities, it is vital that Indigenous tourism development is underpinned by sustainable development principles to ensure that tourism progresses in an appropriate and responsible manner that facilitates sustainable development. The analysis found that the majority of tourism policy documents were not underpinned by broad sustainable development objectives, with limited visions of sustainability that do not address the full gamut of issues affecting Australian indigenous communities and individuals.
Tourism as a Vehicle for Sustaining Indigenous Communities: The Australian Government Policy Response
The purpose of this study was to examine the extent to which sustainable development principles underpin Australian State and Territory governments’ indigenous tourism policy and planning documents. Although tourism is increasingly being used as an instrument to provide new economic opportunities for Indigenous communities, it is vital that Indigenous tourism development is underpinned by sustainable development principles to ensure that tourism progresses in an appropriate and responsible manner that facilitates sustainable development. The analysis found that the majority of tourism policy documents were not underpinned by broad sustainable development objectives, with limited visions of sustainability that do not address the full gamut of issues affecting Australian indigenous communities and individuals.
