14/07/2026
NATOC Executive Officer
Chair's Message
The 2025-2026 year has been the most significant in NATOC's journey to date. As the NSW Aboriginal Tourism Operators Council, we have continued to strengthen our commitment to supporting and advancing Aboriginal tourism across New South Wales, while building the organisational foundations needed for long term success.
A defining milestone this year was the appointment of NATOC's Executive Officer Mick Smith a proud Worimi man from the Newcastle region.
This role has transformed our capacity as an organisation, enabling us to make meaningful progress across all four strategic pillars of the NATOC Strategic Plan 2025–2028. It has strengthened our governance, increased engagement with members, expanded our regional reach and enhanced our ability to advocate for Aboriginal tourism at both the state and national levels.
Our focus remains firmly on supporting our members to succeed. We are committed to creating opportunities that help Aboriginal tourism businesses grow, connect and thrive, while ensuring Aboriginal culture remains at the heart of the visitor experience across NSW.
Through mentoring, industry connections, business support and advocacy, we continue to foster an environment where First Nations tourism operators can build sustainable businesses and share their culture with confidence and pride.
This year also saw the strongest participation yet in NATOC's industry programs and regional engagement activities.
The enthusiasm shown by Aboriginal tourism operators across the state reinforces the importance of investing in Aboriginal-led tourism development and demonstrates the growing strength of our sector.
On behalf of the Board, I sincerely thank Destination NSW for its continued support with NATOC and the Executive Officer role. We also acknowledge the valuable collaboration of the Destination Networks and our many government and industry partners, whose shared commitment is helping to deliver the aspirations of the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy 2035.
As we look ahead, NATOC remains focused on building a strong, sustainable and culturally led Aboriginal tourism sector. Together with our members, partners and communities, we will continue to create opportunities, strengthen leadership and ensure Aboriginal tourism plays an increasingly important role in the future of the NSW visitor economy.
Thank you all for your continued support and belief in NATOC's vision.
Dwayne Bannon-Harrison - NATOC Chair
