Media releases

A new project aims to shine the spotlight on country employment opportunities for Indigenous Australians at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Federation University Australia Professor Keir Reeves will be a chief investigator in the Australian Research Council-funded project, set to begin by the end of 2020.

Professor Reeves will work with a team of researchers and organisations from across Australia to investigate the changing face of cultural tourism in central Australia and examine pathways towards sustainable Indigenous employment in and around the national park.

The project is significant because it brings together Aboriginal community members, industry and government stakeholders to identify micro-business opportunities and youth training initiatives.

It will also foster relationships across cultural divides, and acknowledge the economic value of Aboriginal history and understanding.

The project aims to establish a model for sustainable Indigenous employment in remote and very remote contexts, and develop culturally relevant and sustainable governing guidelines for regional investment.

Quotes attributable to Federation University Professor of History Keir Reeves 

“I am delighted for the local Indigenous groups and really looking forward to working on this important project with various partners and researchers, that has been percolating for almost two years.” 

“Among the aims of this project, we hope to provide sustainable employment opportunities for the Indigenous community and share, protect and celebrate the cultural heritage of central Australia.”