competition in the domestic market.

‘The closure of Tjapukai wasn’t a decision made lightly or quickly,’ says a Tjapukai board staement. ‘We have been seeing declining patronage for many years. Tjapukai has considered various options to continue to revitalise and grow the operations, however the business has continued to remain marginal in the face of a challenging tourism market.

‘Tjapukai has successfully showcased the Djabugay culture to more than three million visitors over its 33 year history, injecting more than $40 million to the local community in wages, royalties and the purchase and commissioning of art and artefacts.

‘Throughout its history Tjapukai has been a strong employer of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, consistently achieving over 65% indigenous employment. Tjapukai is supporting its employees through this difficult time and remains committed to assisting all employees with comprehensive career transition support, including training and the provision of post placement services with the assistance of a local service provider.

‘Tjapukai will work with the traditional owners regarding the future of the site.’