ECO Certification Sponsorship for WA Aboriginal Cultural Tourism Businesses

Expressions of Interest are open to Aboriginal cultural tourism businesses based in Western Australia, who are WAITOC members, to gain Ecotourism Australia’s ECO Certification or Sustainable Tourism Certification.

Embarking on your business certification journey with Ecotourism Australia marks a significant commitment to nature conservation and responsible tourism practices. As Australia’s peak body for ecotourism and sustainable tourism, we connect, champion, inspire and inform through strategic partnerships and global best practice standards.

We offer a clear pathway for businesses and operators eager to showcase their dedication to preserving natural environments and fostering eco-conscious experiences.

Read more about our programs here.

Who Can Apply

Western Australian-based Aboriginal cultural tourism businesses that:

• Are members of the Western Australian Indigneous Tourism Operators Council
• Deliver, or are preparing to deliver a nature-based tourism experience
• Want to improve sustainable business practices and market readiness
• Can commit time to the application, support and audit process
• Are interested in maintaining certification

Support Available

• Support person to guide you through the application and evidence requirements
• Certification cost
• Audit costs, including approved audit travel where required
• Assistance to strengthen policies, procedures and business systems
• Guidance on using certification evidence for relevant requirements e.g.: DBCA licensing and other government/non-government requirements

The program is subject to funding availability, or until funding is exhausted.

Supported by

Tourism Western Australia

Benefits of ECO Certification for Western Australian Aboriginal Cultural Tourism Businesses

Credibility and confidence

Greater confidence and credibility with visitors, tourism organisations, government, trade partners and international buyers.

Trade and market readiness

Stronger readiness for government grants, tenders, licences and partnerships by providing documented evidence of sustainable practices.

DBCA licencing benefits

For businesses operating, or seeking to operate, on DBCA-managed lands and waters, ECO Certification is one of DBCA’s accepted accreditation pathways for commercial operator licences of one year or longer. The ECO level achieved can support eligibility for longer licence terms.

Caring for Country

Independent recognition of sustainable tourism practices and care for Country, culture and community.

Business development

A practical learning and business-development process covering planning, responsible marketing, visitor experience, environmental management, interpretation, conservation and community benefit.

Visibility and recognition

Includes use of certification logo, industry listings, networking and selected promotional opportunities.

Tools, coaching and support

Step-by-step guidance and support to achieve certification, access to resources, templates, training and feedback.