The Global Sustainable Tourism Summit is the flagship event on the international sustainable tourism calendar, bringing together sustainability changemakers, innovators and industry leaders for four days of ideas, collaboration and impact. This year’s program explores global best practice at both destination and business level, highlighting how sustainable tourism creates meaningful value for people, place, planet and purpose.  

Supported by Summit Partner Tourism Australia and proudly hosted by the City of Gold Coast, the Summit will take place from Tuesday 2 to Friday 5 June 2026, aligning with World Environment Day. The event also marks a significant milestone—30 years of ECO Certification—celebrating the ongoing impact of credible sustainability standards in tourism. 

Ecotourism Australia respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which the Summit is held, the Kombumerri people of the Yugambeh language region, and pays respect to Elders past and present. 

Program Overview

The summit program brings together international and local speakers through a dynamic mix of keynote presentations, panel discussions and fireside chats, exploring the most pressing sustainability challenges and opportunities in today’s tourism industry.

–

Day 1: Tuesday 2 June
ECO Think Destination Forum (for ECO Certified Destinations only), 1.30pm – 4.30pm
Welcome Function – Mercure Gold Coast Resort, 6pm – 9pm

Day 2: Wednesday 3 June
Conference Day 1 – Mercure Gold Coast Resort, 8.30am – 5pm
Cocktail Networking Event –  J.W. Marriott Gold Coast Resort and Spa, 6pm – 9pm

Day 3: Thursday 4 June
Conference Day 2 – Mercure Gold Coast Resort, 8.30am – 4pm

Day 4: Friday 5 June
Destination Immersion Program, 8.15am – 1.30pm (optional, at additional cost)

Ecotourism Australia is proud to partner with Humanitix as the official ticketing provider for the Global Sustainable Tourism Summit 2026. Humanitix is a social enterprise that donates 100% of its booking fee profits to a range of charities, including Yalari, The Life You Can Save, Partners for Equity and more. Learn more about Humanitix by clicking here.

Win a Lady Elliot Island Ultimate Great Barrier Reef Experience!

For a limited time, every Summit ticket purchased will go in the draw to win an unforgettable Lady Elliot Island experience for two adults. Proudly supported by our Summit Sponsor and Advanced ECO Certified operator, Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort, this prize showcases the very best of nature-based tourism and global best practice in action.

One lucky attendee will enjoy a full-day Southern Great Barrier Reef experience, including scenic return flights from Redcliffe (Brisbane) or the Gold Coast – a remarkable opportunity valued at $2,400.

This exclusive prize package includes (*T&Cs apply):

• Scenic air transfers ex Gold Coast or Redcliffe
• Fully guided Lady Elliot Island tour
• Combined glass bottom boat & guided snorkel experience
• Buffet lunch with beer, wine, sparkling wine and soft drinks
• Complimentary use of snorkel equipment
• Snorkel lesson in the Resort Pool
• Island tours and activities
• Access to day guest facilities

Be part of the conversation shaping the future of our industry – and experience world-class ecotourism firsthand!  The winner will be announced live at the Global Sustainable Tourism Summit.

Terms & Conditions:

All ticket holders who have already purchased a Summit ticket will automatically be entered into the draw. All activities are subject to weather and tide conditions. Voucher is subject to availability and cannot be redeemed during peak seasons. Any additional cost exceeding the value of this voucher will be paid by the redeemer. This voucher is only valid for the above service and will not be replaced when lost, damaged or stolen. This voucher is not redeemable for cash and non-transferrable. Pricing based on 26/27 rate season ending 31/3/27. If travel is after 31/3/27 redeemer to pay additional cost exceeding this value.

What to Wear & Bring

Dress Code
The Summit dress code is business casual. We recommend comfortable, professional attire suitable for a full day of networking, presentations and movement between sessions.

Your Role as a Delegate

Sustainability at GSTS is a shared responsibility. We encourage all attendees to:

• Consider your travel footprint and choose lower-impact travel options where possible
• Bring reusable items to minimise waste
• Extend your stay to experience the destination in a more meaningful, lower-impact way

As part of our commitment to sustainability, we are reducing the use of single-use items wherever possible. Notebooks and pens will not be provided, so we kindly ask that you bring your own for note-taking throughout the event. We have a number of initiatives on how our delegates can support a sustainable event below.

Sustainability Initiatives

The Global Sustainable Tourism Summit is designed to do more than talk about sustainability – it is built to demonstrate it in practice. Our goal is to deliver a low-impact event while showcasing best practice that delegates can take back into their own businesses, destinations and decision-making.

Sustainability is embedded across every aspect of GSTS 2026 – from venue selection and program design to catering, partnerships and delegate experience. We also recognise that travel is a key contributor to event impact and encourage all attendees to consider lower-carbon options and make conscious choices throughout their journey.

Some of the sustainability initiatives we are committed to include:

• The Global Sustainable Tourism Summit will be held at Mercure Gold Coast Resort, a Sustainable Tourism Certified property recognised by Ecotourism Australia, featuring initiatives such as solar energy, on-site composting, biodiversity programs and reduced waste through its Clean for Green program.
• The Cocktail Networking Event will take place at JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, also Sustainable Tourism Certified, showcasing circular food systems, energy and water efficiency measures, and conservation experiences in partnership with fellow certified operator, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Reforest is a sustainability partner for the Global Sustainable Tourism Summit, planting a tree for each delegate in the Gold Coast region to offset event emissions, with participants able to track their individual tree and contribution through an interactive dashboard.
• The operators included in the Destination Immersion Program (Gwinganna Retreat & Spa, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and Southern Cross Tours) all hold ECO Certification with Ecotourism Australia.
• Suppliers and partners are selected based on their commitment to sustainable and ethical practices, including waste reduction and responsible sourcing.
• All food and beverage service will be delivered using reusable glassware, crockery and cutlery to minimise waste and environmental impact. Delegates are encouraged to bring their own reusable cup for use during breaks, with refill stations available throughout the venue.
• A digital-first program will be delivered, with schedules, updates and event information accessible online to significantly reduce printed materials.
• Conference merchandise has been intentionally minimised to reduce waste, so notepads and pens will not be provided. Delegates are encouraged to bring their own notebook or laptop for use throughout the event.
• Catering is guided by sustainable food principles, with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced produce.
• All dietary requirements are catered for, ensuring inclusive and responsible food service. A high proportion of vegetarian and plant-based options are included as standard.
• Attendees are invited to extend their stay to experience the destination in a more meaningful, low-impact way.

Accessibility Information

We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible experience for all delegates, and we aim to apply best practice in inclusive design, communication and language across the Summit.

We welcome and respect people of all abilities, backgrounds and identities, and encourage delegates to let us know how we can support their participation.

• We are committed to using inclusive and respectful language across all communications, signage and program content.
• A range of seating and spaces will be available to support different comfort and accessibility needs.
• Dietary requirements are fully catered for, supporting a wide range of health, cultural and lifestyle needs.
• Delegates are encouraged to advise any specific access requirements in advance so we can provide appropriate support.

Venue Accessibility

Mercure Gold Coast Resort

Reception & Facilities: Wheelchair-accessible lobby with automatic sliding doors. The Green Bar has ramp access and The Green Dining area is flat for easy entry. Accessible bathrooms are available on the ground floor and conference level. An elevator provides access to the gym and conference spaces. Both pools are accessible via flat-entry gated areas.

Parking: Two designated accessible parking spaces are located on the resort driveway, close to accessible rooms. Additional accessible bays are available in the underground car park (2.9m wide, 2.0m height clearance) via a ramped driveway.

Getting Around: Pathways throughout the resort are step-free, with only slight inclines in some areas. Luggage trolleys are available, and staff are on hand to assist where needed.

Staff Support: Reception is open 24/7, with team members available to support guests with access requirements throughout their stay.

JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa:

Reception & Facilities: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa is an accessible resort designed to support guests with a range of mobility requirements. The hotel lobby is wheelchair-accessible and features automatic sliding doors for easy entry. Chapter & Verse, Citrique Restaurant, Misono, Spa by JW and the resort pool areas are all easily accessible via ramp access. Accessible bathrooms are available on both the ground floor and conference level, and the resort also offers accessible accommodation room types. Elevator access is available from the car park to the lobby and all guest room floors, as well as to the gym, conference rooms and food & beverage outlets.

Parking: Three designated accessible parking spaces are located on level B2 of the underground car park.

Getting Around: Step-free pathways connect all major resort areas, with only gentle inclines in some locations. Team members are available to assist guests whenever required.

Staff Support: The Front Desk operates 24 hours a day, with staff available throughout your stay to assist with accessibility requirements and provide additional support where needed.

For more information about the physical features of JW Marriott’s common areas or special services relating to a specific disability, please call +61 75592 9800 .

Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat 

Getting Around: Gwinganna features a mix of paved paths, boardwalks and natural bushland terrain. Some areas include steps and gradients, and terrain varies across the property. Bushwalking trails range in grade, include natural surfaces and limited rest points, and are not wheelchair accessible. 

Dining: The Dining Room is centrally located within the retreat precinct and accessed via pathways and steps. All meals are gluten-free, dairy-free and 100% organic. A variety of dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. 

Guests with mobility considerations, medical needs, or sensory and communication requirements are encouraged to contact the Gwinganna team prior to confirming their visit for personalised guidance. 

For full accessibility details, visit Gwinganna’s website: https://www.gwinganna.com/pages/accessibility-at-gwinganna-retreat-spa  

Currumbin Wildlife Retreat 

Wheelchair Accessibility: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is generally wheelchair-accessible, featuring, broad, sealed pathways throughout most of the park. Wheelchair hire is available from the Visitor & Member Services booth. 

Parking: Eight reserved accessible parking spaces with shared areas are available within the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Car Park close to the entrance. Car park fees may apply. 

Assistance Animals: Certified guide, hearing and assistance dogs are welcome at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary in line with Queensland Biosecurity requirements and the Guide, Hearing and Assistance Dog Act 2009. Access is restricted in areas involving direct animal interaction or where barking may impact animal welfare, including the paid collection area. 

Staff Support: The Guest Experience team have communication channels across the 27 hectares of the Sanctuary and can liaise with other departments to ensure all guests’ needs are met. 

For full accessibility details, visit Currumbin’s website: https://currumbinsanctuary.com.au/visit/before-arrival/accessibility/ 

Southern Cross Tours

Southern Cross Tours are not suitable for people who require the use of wheelchairs. Unfortunately, they are unable to store walking frames, wheelchairs or other mobility aids on the coach.

For full accessibility details, visit their website: https://www.southerncrosstours.com.au/gold-coast/access-statement/ 

We recognise that sustainability and accessibility are an ongoing process and welcome feedback to continuously improve the experience.

Summit Partner

Host Sponsor

Corporate Sponsor

Summit Sponsors

Summit Supporters

Curious about what’s ahead? Explore the highlights from GSTS24 below!