Costing about $14 million to build, the land council’s chief executive Annette Steele said the project would provide an opportunity to increase indigenous employment opportunities.

“We’re aiming for a high percentage of indigenous employees,” she said. 

“I’m excited about the employment potential and training - it makes a difference to the whole community.”

To be called Yugaway, meaning sleeping place in the Wiradjuri language, the motel will feature 110 accommodation rooms, a 300-seat function centre, a cultural centre, and an art gallery where Orange artists will be able to display and sell their work.

To be located in Forest Road, opposite Jack Brabham Park, Ms Steele said its design would offer a point of difference.

“It’s not a bricks and mortar build - it will include as many natural products as we can, like timber and rock,” she said.

“The gardens are designed to represent all the language groups that call Orange home.”

Jobs will also be created during the construction phase.

Land council members are also in talks with private investors to get the project off the ground and Ms Steele said Minister for Indigenous Affairs Victor Dominello added his support for funding from  Indigenous Business Australia during a meeting with the land council on Thursday.

“There’s been lots of interest from the private sector, but ultimately it’s about what’s best for us as a community,” Ms Steele said.

The DA will be assessed by Orange City Council.

danielle.cetinski@fairfaxmedia.com.au