Six Australian influencers have sparked outrage after a sponsored trip to Uluru, with critics accusing them of reducing the culturally significant site to a backdrop for content. Bella Messina, Alyssa Jane, Jessica Thoday, Tyra Brooke, Ella Victoria and Lily April Rose were invited by Explore Uluru to visit the Northern Territory landmark.
Uluru, known to the Aṉangu people as a place of deep spiritual importance, has strict guidelines on photography and filming. Certain areas are off-limits to cameras, and commercial use requires a permit from Parks Australia. Critics say the influencers ignored these protocols, posting posed photos and videos without sharing cultural context.
Alyssa Jane defended the group, stating they received a one-hour briefing on what could be filmed and submitted content for approval to ensure sacred areas remained private. An Indigenous woman also supported them, noting that nothing would have been posted without official clearance from the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Media Office.
The backlash comes after climbing Uluru was permanently banned in 2019, following decades of requests from the Aṉangu. Park entry costs $38 for a three-day pass, and fines for breaching rules can exceed $5,000. The Aṉangu welcome visitors but urge them to stay on the right path and respect their culture.
