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Early Program Unveiled for Global Sustainable Tourism Summit 2026
Early Program Unveiled for Global Sustainable Tourism Summit 2026 The early program for the Global Sustainable Tourism Summit 2026 has been unveiled, with Ecotourism Australia promising the most impactful event to date for the tourism industry. Taking place from 2–5 June on the Gold Coast, the Summit will bring together global leaders, innovators and changemakers to explore how tourism can deliver meaningful outcomes across the four core themes of people, place, planet and purpose. Ecotourism Australia CEO Elissa Keenan said the 2026 Summit comes at a critical time for the global tourism industry. “Tourism has a powerful role to play in shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future, but real progress requires collaboration, innovation and practical action. This year’s Summit is designed to equip industry leaders with the tools, insights and partnerships needed to turn ambition into impact,” Ms Keenan said. The 2026 program has been designed to offer practical insights, global case studies and forward-thinking strategies that delegates can apply directly within their own businesses and destinations. Taking a holistic look at sustainability, the program will examine how the industry can address the green skills gap by embedding sustainability across organisations and grow First Nations tourism through meaningful partnerships. It will also explore how destinations can prepare for major events such as Brisbane 2032 by developing accessible and future-ready visitor experiences. International perspectives will feature strongly throughout the program, with insights into how Slovenia has become one of the world’s leading sustainable destinations, lessons from Borneo on using ecotourism to protect wildlife, and perspectives on showcasing cultural heritage with authenticity and respect from the United Arab Emirates. Environmental priorities will remain central, with a focus on tourism’s role in supporting global conservation targets, including protecting 30 per cent of land and marine areas by 2030. Delegates will also explore how to build climate-resilient visitor economies and examine best practice examples of ecotourism in action. Complementing this, the program will address the growing importance of measuring tourism’s true environmental and social impact, preparing for increasing sustainability regulation and scrutiny, and understanding how global initiatives such as Travalyst are reshaping data transparency. The commercial dimension will also be explored, with a focus on how organisations can turn purpose into profit—and profit into purpose. The Summit will feature an exceptional lineup of speakers, including leading sustainable tourism operators such as Lady Elliot Island, Untamed Escapes and Kestrel Hut Eco Hut, alongside representatives from Tourism Australia, Green Destinations, Paralympics Australia, Accor, YHA, RACV and EVT. Registration for the Summit includes a Welcome Function on the evening of Tuesday 2 June, a full conference day on Wednesday 3 June followed by an evening networking event, and a second full conference day on Thursday 4 June. The Global Sustainable Tourism Summit continues to serve as a leading platform for collaboration and innovation, supporting the transition to a tourism industry that delivers long-term value for communities, environments and economies worldwide. END Media contacts: Ecotourism Australia – Myv Costelloe, Stakeholder Engagement Manager e: myv@ecotourism.org.au ph: (07) 3256 6777 About Ecotourism Australia Ecotourism Australia is a non-government, not-for-profit organisation established in 1991, dedicated to promoting and supporting Australia’s visitor economy by building capacity and advancing sustainable tourism operations and systems. This is the second conference following the inaugural Global Sustainable Tourism Summit in 2024 and builds on Ecotourism Australia’s legacy of delivering the Global ECO Conference, one of the world’s longest-running ecotourism conferences. Our legacy program, ECO Certification, was the world’s first national ecotourism certification program, while Sustainable Tourism Certification, launched in 2022, supports non-nature-based businesses in achieving global best practice. Today, more than 2,500 accommodation providers, tours and attractions are certified by Ecotourism Australia. Ecotourism Australia is also a founding member of the Tourism Sustainability Certifications Alliance (TSCA), a global association for sustainable tourism established in January 2025. TSCA members collectively certify more than 19,000 travel and tourism enterprises, organisations and destinations worldwide, representing the largest cohort of certified operators globally.
Victoria’s Surf Coast Achieves ECO Destination Certification
Victoria’s Surf Coast Achieves ECO Destination Certification Ecotourism Australia is proud to announce that the Surf Coast Shire has officially earned ECO Destination Certification, formally recognising the region’s adherence to global best practice sustainable tourism and environmental management standards. Located south west of Melbourne, the Surf Coast marks the official start of the iconic Great Ocean Road. Comprising eleven distinct townships, the region is one of Victoria’s fastest-growing municipalities and a premier destination for domestic and international travellers. “We are delighted to welcome the Surf Coast region to our growing cohort of ECO Certified Destinations throughout Australia. This certification recognises the dedication of the Surf Coast Shire team, businesses and residents in making the Surf Coast a model for responsible tourism in Australia,” said Elissa Keenan, CEO of Ecotourism Australia. “With exceptional nature-based experiences offered by ECO Certified operators such as Torquay Surf Academy, Southern Exposure Eco Adventure Sports and Go Ride A Wave, and sustainable accommodation offerings from Desa Retreats, RACV Torquay Resort, Great Ocean Road Resort and Mantra Lorne, visitors can explore the Surf Coast knowing they are supporting a region that values its environment as much as its vibrant lifestyle.” This milestone establishes the Surf Coast Shire as the second destination in Victoria to attain ECO Destination Certification, following East Gippsland’s certification in April 2023, and the 15th destination in Australia. “We’re absolutely rapt for the Surf Coast Shire to receive ECO Destination Certification, as it strengthens our status as a place where visitors can soak up nature-focused experiences,” said Surf Coast Shire Mayor, Cr Libby Stapleton. “Our world-class environment is a huge drawcard for the 2.6 million visitors to the Surf Coast each year – from internationals exploring the Great Ocean Road, to people from across Australia taking in our charming hinterland.” Surf Coast Shire Council thanked various partners – Barwon Water, Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority, Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism and Parks Victoria – for the comprehensive range of sustainability initiatives as part of its ECO Destination Certification. The region carefully monitors visitor numbers and behaviour to manage impacts on natural and cultural sites, while strict guidelines and licensing protect wildlife and sensitive ecosystems. Water conservation measures, low-impact transport options and climate adaptation strategies ensure tourism infrastructure and practices remain resilient and environmentally responsible. At the same time, the Shire supports authentic cultural engagement, ensuring local communities benefit economically while preserving their traditions. “One of our priorities is to foster slow and regenerative tourism that is respectful of the local environment, values local communities and maximises local yield and revenue. This certification will help us to achieve that,” said Cr Stapleton. “We also want tourism to deliver consistent economic and social benefits year-round. What better way to help achieve this than to welcome visitors who love the outdoors and care about the environment.” ECO Destination Certification 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 Surf Coast Shire joins a growing network of certified destinations across Australia. Through Ecotourism Australia’s partnership with Green Destinations, Surf Coast Shire is also now part of a distinguished group of over 200 certified destinations globally. Learn more about the Surf Coast by visiting them on the Green Travel Guide here. L-R – Surf Coast Shire Mayor Cr Libby Stapleton, Council CEO Robyn Seymour, Barwon Water Head of Sustainability and Healthy Country Nicole Sexton, Parks Victoria District Manager West Coast Dale Antonysen and Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority Board Chair Libby Mears celebrate the accreditation at Spring Creek, Torquay. END Media contacts: Ecotourism Australia – Myv Costelloe, Stakeholder Engagement Manager e: myv@ecotourism.org.au ph: (07) 3256 6777 Surf Coast Shire – Kate Fowles, Communications Advisor e: kfowles@surfcoast.vic.gov.au ph: 0428 436 489 About Ecotourism Australia Ecotourism Australia is a non-government, not-for-profit organisation, established in 1991, that promotes and supports Australia’s visitor economy through building capacity and actively promoting sustainable tourism operations and systems. Our legacy program – ECO Certification – was the world’s first national ecotourism certification program and the Sustainable Tourism Certification, launched in 2022 supports non-nature based businesses achieve global best-practice. Today there are some 2500 accommodation, tours and attractions certified by Ecotourism Australia. Ecotourism Australia is also a founding member of the Tourism Sustainability Certifications Alliance (TSCA), a global association for sustainable tourism established in January 2025. TSCA members are responsible for certifying more than 19,000 travel and tourism enterprises, organisations, and destinations across the globe – representing the largest cohort of certified operators worldwide. - About Surf Coast Shire The Wadawurrung People, and the Gulidjan and Gadubanud Peoples of the Eastern Maar nation are acknowledged as the Traditional Owners of the lands now called Surf Coast Shire. Stretching along Victoria’s iconic Great Ocean Road, the Surf Coast Shire is a region of striking natural beauty and relaxed coastal living, where rugged cliffs, renowned surf breaks and forested hinterlands invite visitors to slow down and reconnect with nature. Home to vibrant towns including Torquay, Anglesea, Aireys Inlet, Lorne and Winchelsea, the region blends surf culture, creativity and local produce with a strong sense of community. The Surf Coast is deeply committed to sustainable tourism, with local businesses, residents and partners working together to protect its unique environmental and cultural values for generations to come.
Destination Immersion Program
Destination Immersion ProgramStep beyond the Summit and celebrate World Environment Day by experiencing the Gold Coast like never before with our exclusive Destination Immersion Program. Showcasing a curated selection of our ECO Certified operators, this hands-on experience gives delegates a firsthand look at sustainable tourism in action across the region. Explore regenerative practices at Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, witness pioneering conservation at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and and hit the road with Southern Cross Tours, guided by local experts who bring the region’s natural and cultural treasures to life. Only 25 tickets available for just $115.50* each - secure yours before they’re gone! Friday 5 June, 8.15 am - 1.30 pm Destination Immersion Program – $115.50* Ticket price includes morning tea, all experiences, pick up from the Mercure Gold Coast Resort, and drop off at either the Mercure Gold Coast Resort or Gold Coast Airport. *Prices include GST. Booking fees are not included and are subject to the discretion of the ticketing partner. The Destination Immersion program is subject to a minimum participant requirement. Should this minimum not be met, delegates will receive a full refund. Participation is restricted to Summit ticket holders, with tickets available either as part of a combined purchase or separately if Summit tickets have already been obtained. Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat ECO Certified, Green Travel Leader Nestled across 200 hectares of the spectacular Gold Coast hinterland, Gwinganna is a multi-award-winning wellness retreat, offering holistic experiences guided by the principles of organic living, restorative rest, movement and immersion in nature. Renowned globally for its transformative effect on guests’ lifestyle habits, Gwinganna invites our delegates to experience a taste of its comprehensive wellness offerings: Mountain Bathing Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Tallebudgera Valley, relaxing in a hammock, listening to nature and following guided meditations and soundscapes to pause, reflect and realign while reconnecting with the rhythm of the land. Healing Bee Hut Be soothed by the gentle hum of over 100,000 bees in a specially designed hive hut, where the vibrations, warmth and subtle aroma of beeswax create a meditative, multi-sensory experience that calms the mind and restores holistic balance. Equine Therapy Guided by an equine-assisted learning specialist, practice elements of natural horsemanship, observing and interacting with the horses to understand non-verbal communication, uncover unconscious patterns, and foster emotional intelligence. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Advanced ECO Certified, Green Travel Leader For more than 75 years, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary has been a cherished Gold Coast destination where visitors from around the world can connect with Australia’s unique native animals. This iconic not-for-profit sanctuary weaves together conservation, Indigenous heritage and wildlife experiences, with all proceeds being reinvested into vital programs that protect and nurture Australia's extraordinary wildlife. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary invites our delegates to fully immerse themselves in wildlife conservation with a custom Walk the Talk program, a behind-the-scenes experience designed to inspire and educate. Hear captivating stories from expert wildlife keepers and gain insight into the life-saving work of one of the world’s busiest wildlife hospitals. Then, roll up your sleeves for a practical conservation activity, creating seed balls for the Sanctuary’s feathered friends. Southern Cross Tours ECO Certified Thank you to Southern Cross Tours for partnering with us to provide transport throughout the Destination Immersion Program. Since 1994, Southern Cross Tours has been sharing the beauty of the Gold Coast Hinterland, offering guided rainforest, national park and bushland experiences that inspire guests to connect deeply with nature. Their passionate guides bring the region to life, sharing stories of conservation, local communities and the delicate balance of nature. Through their ECO Certified tours, visitors not only experience unforgettable encounters with Australia’s unique landscapes and wildlife but also contribute to sustainability initiatives, such as partnering with Reforest to offset CO₂ emissions, leaving guests with a deeper appreciation for the natural world. 8:15 am - Depart Mercure Gold Coast Resort 8:50 am - Wellness experiences & morning tea at Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat 11:30 am - Depart Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat 12:00 pm - Conservation talk and seed ball activity at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary 1:00 pm - Depart Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary - return transfers to either Gold Coast Airport or Mercure Gold Coast ResortSummit PartnerHost Sponsor Corporate SponsorsSummit SponsorsSummit SupportersKeep up to date with the latest Summit details.