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Tourism NT uses “Abo” as paid search term

Tourism NT abo Google MumbrellaThe government-funded body in charge of tourism in the Northern Territory is using Google paid search around the racially offensive keyword “Abo”, it has emerged.

When Google users search on the phrase “Abo”, they see a sponsored link inviting them to “An experience you will never forget. Experience Aboriginal culture in NT.”  

The ad links to the Travel NT Northern Territory tourism site.

It was spotted yesterday by blogger Brett Nicholson of Melbourne agency Next Digital. He wrote:

“My initial reaction is to blame it on incompetence. Sure, Aboriginal culture represents massive opportunity for Tourism NT and it’s clearly a focus for them but I still think this is inexcusable.”

Mumbrella has requested a comment from Tourism NT.

3.10pm update: Tourism NT has yet to comment, but the paid keyword search appears to have been removed in the last few minutes.

5.35pm update: Tourism NT has yet to comment to Mumbrella, but the Age is reporting that the organisation has blamed its media agency MPG

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