The Tyranny of Time and Distance: Impediments for Remote Agritourism Operators Accessing Support in the Northern Territory, Australia

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study investigated the perceived impediments that prevent remote agritourism operators in the Northern Territory (NT) Australia from expanding and accessing support from governmental and industry organisations. Five primary themes emerged from 11 in-depth interviews with remote agritourism operators across the NT. These included distance from urban centres, limited human resources, infrastructure gaps, high capital requirements, and difficulties navigating and accessing support organisations. In addition, all businesses acknowledged they required support, the vast distance from urban centres often prevented participation in relevant programs due to a lack of time (for both travel and participation), seasonality and the patchwork range of support resources. A key recommendation is for government and other support organisations, as well as policymakers to improve their engagement with the sector in order to develop appropriate supports.