by Ecotourism Australia | Feb 14, 2025 | Case Study, Destination NSW
The Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary is dedicated to the rehabilitation and conservation of koalas in the wild.
In partnership with the Port Stephens Koala Hospital, the sanctuary provides care for sick, injured, and orphaned koalas in the region. It promotes sustainability through recycling programs, a ‘Return and Earn’ initiative, and the reduction of single-use plastics by offering bulk amenities and reusable water bottles. The landscaping features native plants that require less water, supporting the local ecosystem.
One of the many highlights is The Sanctuary Story Walk, a 250-meter immersive pathway designed to offer visitors of all ages a captivating and educational journey into the world of koalas. This engaging attraction deepens appreciation for these iconic creatures while fostering a greater understanding of their importance in the face of growing environmental challenges.
Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary received a complimentary Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard, thanks to the partnership between Destination NSW and Ecotourism Australia.
The Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard is a pre-certification bench marking tool assessing businesses against the 4 Pillars of Sustainability: Sustainable Management, Environmental, Socio-economic, and Cultural Impacts and is based on globally recognised sustainability criteria.
James Cook, manager of Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary stated,“The Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard program has helped align our operations with sustainable practices. This initiative has enhanced our conservation efforts and demonstrated our commitment to preserving koalas and their natural habitat for future generations. The sanctuary aims to further improve its sustainability practices and continue providing extended care opportunities for a diverse range of native Australian wildlife in the Port Stephens region.”
“Being relatively new in the conservation and preservation of wild species space, participation in Ecotourism Australia’s Strive 4 Sustainability program ensured that the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary navigated correctly through this vitally important business improvement,” said Mr. Cook.
When Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary completed their Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard, they received a detailed report providing a snapshot of their current sustainability practices, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement. They plan to use these insights to identify opportunities for further enhancing their sustainability efforts.
You can learn more about Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary and book your visit here.
Ecotourism Australia invites you to attend our Annual General Meeting (AGM) at 11 am AEST on Monday, 20 October 2025, hosted online via Zoom. This is an important opportunity for members to engage in the governance of our organisation and shape its future direction.At this year’s AGM, the Board of Ecotourism Australia will present a proposed new Constitution for member approval.
The proposed Constitution has been designed to:
- Introduce a balanced structure of member-elected Directors (maximum 5) and Board-appointed Directors (maximum 4)
- Update Director terms from 2 years to 3 years, with a maximum of two terms (6 years total)
- Meet current regulatory requirements for a Company Limited by Guarantee
- Be modernised and contemporary to meet Ecotourism Australia’s strategic imperatives and our objectives
- Provide a streamlined and concise governance framework.
As required under the Corporations Act 2001, the new Constitution must be formally adopted by members through a special resolution at the AGM. This means that at least 75% of members present and voting will need to support the resolution for it to pass. Your vote is therefore important in shaping the future governance of Ecotourism Australia. The draft Constitution is available for download below.
We have an Expression of Interest (EOI) for Directors for the Ecotourism Australia board. Please note that while EOIs will be open, no new Directors will be appointed before the AGM.
Your participation is vital to ensure our governance reflects the strength, professionalism and sustainability goals of our membership.
Thank you for your continued support of Ecotourism Australia. We look forward to your involvement at the AGM.
by Ecotourism Australia | Feb 12, 2025 | Media Release
MidCoast Council is proud to announce that the Barrington Coast region has achieved ECO Destination Certification through Ecotourism Australia, highlighting their dedication to protecting their environment.
Located on the lower mid-north coast of New South Wales, three hours north of Sydney, the Barrington Coast is a haven for nature lovers and home to incredible landscapes such as the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests of the Barrington Tops and the Ramsar Convention designated wetland of international importance the Myall lakes.
This milestone makes the Barrington Coast the fifth destination in New South Wales and the 13th in Australia to receive this distinguished recognition.
“We’re incredibly excited to welcome the Barrington Coast region as our newest certified ECO Destination,” said Ecotourism Australia CEO, Ms. Elissa Keenan.
“Led by the wonderful team at MidCoast Council, this achievement highlights the region’s commitment to adhering to global best practice sustainable tourism. Alongside achieving ECO Destination Certification, the region has actively supported local operators to achieve business certification or to complete our pre-certification benchmarking tool, the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard,” Ms Keenan said.
Support for the certification program was also provided from WWF-Australia’s Australian Wildlife and Nature Recovery Fund. Following the Black Summer bushfires, WWF-Australia partnered with Ecotourism Australia to help 11 bushfire-affected regions build back better through ecotourism.
“Our ECO Destination Certification with Ecotourism Australia highlights our continued commitment and progress towards a more sustainable tourism industry, while creating more attractive experiences for locals and visitors,” said Mayor Claire Pontin.
MidCoast Council has implemented a wide range of sustainability initiatives including developing a Climate Action Strategy to achieve Net Zero targets by 2040, installing over 200kW of solar panels across 10 public buildings, holding water resilience workshops, and replacing printed visitor information booklets with QR codes that link to interactive online guides.
Destination NSW Acting CEO Karen Jones said: “Destination NSW congratulates Barrington Coast on achieving ECO Destination Certification—an achievement that reflects the region’s deep commitment to sustainability across environmental, cultural, and socio-economic dimensions.
“By embracing global best practices, Barrington Coast is not only protecting its extraordinary natural landscapes but also strengthening local businesses’ role in sustainable tourism.
“This milestone reinforces the region’s position as a premier destination for nature-based experiences in NSW, and Destination NSW is proud to support its ongoing efforts to safeguard these assets for future generations.”
ECO Destination Certification at the Ecotourism level assesses a region on more than 90 criteria across eight sections including Destination Management, Environment and Climate, Culture and Tradition, and Social Wellbeing. By achieving ECO Destination Certification, the Barrington Coast joins a growing network of certified destinations in New South Wales – Bellingen Shire, the Blue Mountains, Central Coast and Coffs Harbour. Through Ecotourism Australia’s partnership with Green Destinations, Barrington Coast is also now part of a distinguished group of 160 certified destinations globally.
Ecotourism Australia’s Stakeholder Engagement Manager, Myv Costelloe, is in Taree today to award Barrington Coast with their official certificate and present to key stakeholders.
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Media event details:
Date: Wednesday 12 February 2025
Time: 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Location: First Steps Count, 4 Myall Avenue Taree
Ecotourism Australia Media Contact: Myv Costelloe, Stakeholder Engagement Manager, e: myv@ecotourism.org.au, ph: 07 3256 6777
To see all the latest news: News & Blog | Ecotourism Australia
Find out more about the Barrington Coast on the Green Travel Guide.
by Ecotourism Australia | Jan 30, 2025 | Media Release
The Scenic Rim region has proudly announced its achievement of ECO Destination Certification with Ecotourism Australia, underscoring its strong commitment to sustainable tourism.
As the first destination to achieve certification in 2025, the Scenic Rim becomes the sixth in Queensland and the 12th in Australia to earn this prestigious recognition.
Located an hour from Brisbane and the Gold Coast, the Scenic Rim is celebrated for its UNESCO World Heritage Gondwana rainforests, dramatic landscapes and six National Parks. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature, savour award-winning local produce, and experience the region’s warm hospitality.
Ecotourism Australia CEO Ms Elissa Keenan congratulated Scenic Rim for achieving ECO Destination Certification.
“As a hub for ecotourism, the Scenic Rim is home to iconic pioneers like Binna Burra Lodge, O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, Mount Barney Lodge, and Araucaria Ecotours, alongside a further nine Ecotourism Australia-certified businesses offering exceptional sustainable experiences for eco-conscious travellers.
“We are immensely proud of the Scenic Rim’s commitment to promoting responsible travel and showcasing the region’s breathtaking natural beauty and biodiversity.
“This certification underscores the Scenic Rim’s dedication to implementing sustainable tourism strategies aligned with global best-practice standards. By fostering high-quality nature-based experiences and advancing sustainable destination management, the region strengthens its position as a leader in responsible tourism,” Ms Keenan said.
Scenic Rim Mayor Tom Sharp said, “Tourism is one of the Scenic Rim’s most valuable industries. Achieving ECO Destination Certification reinforces our commitment to sustainable practices, creating better places for locals and visitors alike. This recognition inspires deeper appreciation and responsibility for preserving our extraordinary landscapes.”
This significant milestone was led by Scenic Rim Regional Council in collaboration with local tourism operators and stakeholders. The certification process was made possible through support from the Queensland Government and WWF-Australia.
The Queensland Government through the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (formerly the Department of Tourism and Sport) provided grant funding in 2023-2024 for regions across the state to undertake or complete ECO Destination Certification.
Support for the program was also provided from WWF-Australia’s Australian Wildlife and Nature Recovery Fund. Following the Black Summer bushfires, WWF-Australia partnered with Ecotourism Australia to help 11 bushfire-affected regions build back better through ecotourism.
“This achievement would not have been possible without the strong partnership between Council and Ecotourism Australia, as well as essential funding support from both the Queensland Government and WWF Australia,” Mayor Sharp said.
This certification aligns with the Queensland Government’s ambition to become a global leader in ecotourism. Certification will help the Scenic Rim leverage the growth in demand for nature-based tourism, foster job creation, and enhance community services and facilities – including leveraging the tourism opportunities of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
ECO Destination Certification at the Ecotourism level assesses a region on more than 90 criteria across eight sections including Destination Management, Environment and Climate, Culture and Tradition, and Social Wellbeing. By achieving ECO Destination Certification, the Scenic Rim joins a global network of more than 160 destinations in 60 countries through Ecotourism Australia’s partnership with Green Destinations.
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Ecotourism Australia Media Contact: Myv Costelloe, Stakeholder Engagement Manager, e: myv@ecotourism.org.au, ph: 07 3256 6777
To see all the latest news: News & Blog | Ecotourism Australia
Scenic Rim Regional Council media contact: Jennifer Stockman, Principal Specialist Communication and Marketing,
e: Jennifer.St@scenicrim.qld.gov.au, ph: 0400 031 285
by Ecotourism Australia | Jan 21, 2025 | Article
Life’s an Adventure is an Australian walking tour company that exemplifies ecotourism excellence.
Renowned for their pack-free walking experiences, they provide unforgettable journeys through some of Australia’s most breathtaking landscapes. Guests can immerse themselves in nature while enjoying locally sourced cuisine, fine wines, and carefully curated accommodations, creating the perfect blend of adventure and comfort.
As an Ecotourism Australia Certified Operator and Green Travel Leader, Life’s an Adventure has proudly maintained their ECO certification for over a decade. The company embodies responsible travel through their conservation efforts, community collaboration, and climate advocacy, and integrate eco-friendly practices across their tours, fostering sustainability through innovative initiatives.
One standout initiative is the Conservation Custodians program, which invites guests to actively participate in preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the regions they explore. This program offers a hands-on approach to conservation, engaging participants in activities like habitat restoration and biodiversity research, creating a meaningful connection to the environment.
Developed in collaboration with land managers, Traditional Owners, scientists, and other experts, the program delivers meaningful environmental benefits while enriching the guest experience. Guides provide valuable insights into the ecosystems and cultural significance of each area, helping participants see the impact of their contributions.
In 2024, the program debuted its first major project in Tasmania’s Tarkine region in collaboration with the Bookend Trust and NatureTrackers. Guests can participate in the Claws on the Line program dedicated to monitoring and protecting endangered freshwater crayfish species. They record data through the iNaturalist platform supporting vital research aimed at protecting these remarkable creatures and their habitats.
Blue Freshwater Crayfish
“This program addresses the growing demand for travel experiences that give back to the environment,” says Company Director Mark Norek. “It’s a testament to why we’ve held Ecotourism Australia’s ECO Certification since 2011.”
Life’s an Adventure’s unwavering dedication to sustainability has positioned the company as a leader in responsible travel. Through its Conservation Custodians program, community initiatives, and advocacy for climate action, the company inspires travellers and stakeholders to embrace ecotourism as a force for positive change.
You can discover more about Life’s an Adventure on the Green Travel Guide.
by Ecotourism Australia | Jan 7, 2025 | Article
As we enter 2025, it is evident that sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a business essential.
With 75% of global travellers saying they want to travel more sustainably over the next 12 months (Booking.com 2024 Sustainable Travel report), it’s clear that responsible travel is here to stay. Is your tourism business prepared to meet this growing demand? If not, now is the perfect time to act.
Inspired by our Certified operators, here are five impactful steps you can take to make your business more sustainable in the coming year, improve your reputation, and attract more eco-friendly travellers.
1) Reduce your environmental impact: Adopt energy-efficient technologies, reduce waste, and minimise water usage to lessen your environmental impact. For example, Crystal Creek Meadows (Advanced Ecotourism and ROC Certified, Green Travel Leader) in Kangaroo Valley, NSW utilises solar panels, waste management systems, and water irrigation, while also implementing regeneration programs to enhance wildlife habitats and gardens.
2) Support Local Communities: Partner with local suppliers and engage in initiatives that give back to the community. For instance, YHA Adelaide Central (Sustainable Tourism Certified) organises “Feel Good Fridays,” where pancakes are served for a gold coin donation, with all proceeds supporting the Hutt Street Centre to aid Adelaide’s homeless community fostering a sense of social responsibility.
3) Collaborate with First Nations Communities: Connect with First Nations people in your area to respectfully integrate their cultural heritage and stories into your offerings. Take inspiration from Ayers Rock Resort (Advanced Ecotourism and ROC Certified), where responsible tourism is deeply rooted in maintaining respectful relationships with the Anangu people and their land. By working closely with Traditional Owners, the Resort has created meaningful initiatives such as Wintjiri Wiru, a drone, laser, and light show that shares a chapter of the ancestral Mala story. They also support Indigenous education, health, employment, and tourism initiatives, demonstrating how respectful collaboration can preserve cultural heritage.
4) Offer Eco-Friendly Experiences Design activities that promote nature appreciation, and minimal environmental disruption to attract eco-conscious travellers. For instance, Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park (Ecotourism Certified and Green Travel Leader) in Victoria offers tours that educate visitors about endangered species and sustainable practices, encouraging responsible tourism while minimising environmental impact.
5) Educate Guests on Responsible Tourism: Share your sustainability practices with guests through clear communication. Include information about eco-friendly initiatives in your marketing materials throughout the customer journey as well as on-site. Highlight key actions like waste reduction, water conservation, and community engagement, showing visitors how they can contribute to sustainability during their stay. Wildlife Adventures Melbourne (Advanced Ecotourism and Climate Action Certified) has a fantastic sustainability section on their website. Check it out for inspiration.
As sustainability becomes a top priority for travellers in 2025, is your business ready to meet the growing demand? Join the movement by becoming certified with Ecotourism Australia. It’s a proven way to enhance your sustainability efforts and attract eco-conscious travellers.
Reach out today at eco@tourismaustralia.org.au or call 07 3256 6777 to start your certification journey and set your business up for success in the year ahead.
