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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 Summit Sponsors Summit SupporterKeep up to date with the latest Summit details.
Accommodation Offers
Accommodation OffersFind exclusive accommodation offers for the Global Sustainable Tourism Summit on the Gold Coast. All participating accommodation providers are Ecotourism Australia certified, ensuring your stay supports sustainable tourism practices while enjoying discounted rates. Mercure Gold Coast Resort, our host venue, is pleased to offer delegates a special fixed rate of $225.00 per room, per night, including one breakfast daily. This exclusive rate is available for Summit attendees and offers the convenience of staying onsite throughout the event. Secure your room here.Novotel Surfers Paradise (16 min to venue) are pleased to offer Summit delegates a 15% discount on their Best Available Rate, valid for stays between 2 - 5 June 2026. Bookings can be made using the code NSP15%, and the discount is subject to availability at the time of booking. The same discounted rate has also been generously extended into the following weekend, allowing delegates to enjoy a longer stay and further explore the Gold Coast!QT Gold Coast (19 min to venue) are generously offering a 30% discount on their Best Flexible Rate for delegates attending the Summit. The rate is valid for bookings between 29 May and 9 June. There is no minimum stay; however, accommodation will be subject to availability at the time of booking. Book directly with QT Gold Coast here to secure your room at the discounted rate.Peppers Broadbeach (12 mins to venue) and Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise (17 mins to venue) are pleased to offer Summit delegates a 10% discount on accommodation, valid for stays between 29 May and 9 June. Bookings can be made using the promo code GSTS2026. Please note: All rooms are subject to availability at time of booking. Promo codes are only valid for bookings made online. Bookings will also be subject to any minimum night stay restrictions as listed on the website. Online Terms and Conditions apply to these bookings. For full terms & conditions please click here. How to book: visit: com Enter stay details including Hotel Name or Destination, Check in & Check out dates and Room/Guest details Click on “More Options” drop down Under “Other special rates and promo code” select “promo code” and enter the code as above (case sensitive) and hit “search” Discounted rates will be indicated by the red “Special Offer” banner Select the hotel and room type you wish to book and hit Continue to proceed to payment screen Fill in all required details to confirm your booking and hit Confirm You will receive an email confirmation once all details have been processed. BreakFree Beachpoint Surfers Paradise (18 mins to venue), BreakFree Imperial Surfers Paradise (17 mins to venue) and BreakFree Moroccan Surfers Paradise (17 mins to venue) are pleased to offer Summit delegates a 10% discount on accommodation, valid for stays between 29 May and 9 June. Bookings can be made using the promo code GSTS2026. Please note: All rooms are subject to availability at time of booking. Promo codes are only valid for bookings made online. Bookings will also be subject to any minimum night stay restrictions as listed on the website. Online Terms and Conditions apply to these bookings. For full terms & conditions please click here. How to book: visit: com Enter stay details including Hotel Name or Destination, Check in & Check out dates and Room/Guest details Click on “More Options” drop down Under “Other special rates and promo code” select “promo code” and enter the code as above (case sensitive) and hit “search” Discounted rates will be indicated by the red “Special Offer” banner Select the hotel and room type you wish to book and hit Continue to proceed to payment screen Fill in all required details to confirm your booking and hit Confirm You will receive an email confirmation once all details have been processed. A range of Mantra properties across the Gold Coast are pleased to offer Summit delegates a 10% discount on accommodation, valid for stays between 29 May and 9 June. Participating properties include Mantra Sun City Surfers Paradise (16 mins to venue), Mantra Crown Towers Surfers Paradise (18 mins to venue), Mantra Legends (15 mins to venue), Mantra Circle on Cavill (16 mins to venue), Mantra on View (17 mins to venue) and Mantra Towers of Chevron (15 mins to venue). Bookings can be made using the promo code GSTS2026. Please note: All rooms are subject to availability at time of booking. Promo codes are only valid for bookings made online. Bookings will also be subject to any minimum night stay restrictions as listed on the website. Online Terms and Conditions apply to these bookings. For full terms & conditions please click here. How to book: visit: https://all.accor.com/a/en.html Enter stay details including Hotel Name or Destination, Check in & Check out dates and Room/Guest details Click on “More Options” drop down Under “Other special rates and promo code” select “promo code” and enter the code as above (case sensitive) and hit “search” Discounted rates will be indicated by the red “Special Offer” banner Select the hotel and room type you wish to book and hit Continue to proceed to payment screen Fill in all required details to confirm your booking and hit Confirm You will receive an email confirmation once all details have been processed. RACV Royal Pines Resort (9 min to venue) are pleased to offer Summit delegates a 15% discount on their room rates. Bookings can be made using the link here.GETTING TO MERCURE GOLD COAST RESORT The easiest way to reach Mercure Gold Coast Resort is by Uber or taxi, located approximately 23 minutes from Gold Coast Airport. Check-in is available from 2:00pm and we recommend arriving by 5:00pm at the latest so you’re settled in before our Welcome Function, kicking off from 6:00pm poolside. Please note that both evening functions across the program will be business casual. STAYING LONGER? If you’re planning to extend your stay and explore more of the Gold Coast, Mercure Gold Coast Resort is happy to help. Simply contact the hotel directly to be advised on room availability and rates for additional nights. Staying a little longer gives you the chance to enjoy the resort facilities at a relaxed pace, or head out to discover nearby beaches, markets and local attractions. THINGS TO DO LOCALLY There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the Gold Coast during your stay. Catch a morning surf or enjoy a leisurely stroll along Surfers Paradise Beach, explore the boutiques and cafés of Broadbeach, or immerse yourself in the natural beauty of hinterland gems like Lamington National Park. For a full list of our Gold Coast ECO and Sustainable Tourism Certified operators, check out our Green Travel Guide here. Member - $825* Non-Member - $990* Destination Immersion Program – $115.50* *Prices include GST. Booking fees are not included and are subject to the discretion of the ticketing partner. 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.Summit PartnerHost Sponsor Summit Sponsors Summit SupporterKeep up to date with the latest Summit details.
YHA Australia First to Certify 100% of Accommodation Network with Ecotourism Australia
YHA Australia have achieved a significant sustainability milestone, becoming the first accommodation network globally to certify their entire portfolio with Ecotourism Australia with 18 properties receiving ECO or Sustainable Tourism Certification. The landmark achievement, achieved in January this year, represents a committed and collaborative effort across the network to meet rigorous global standards across sustainable management, environmental stewardship, socio-economic impact and cultural engagement. Founded on a desire to support the exploration of our planet with minimal ecological impact, YHA Australia offer curious travellers low cost, quality short-stay accommodation spanning from thriving city destinations to off-the-beaten-path locations. Ecotourism Australia CEO, Elissa Keenan congratulated YHA Australia for setting the benchmark as the first accommodation network to certify their entire network with Ecotourism Australia. “YHA Australia’s certification journey demonstrates the power of embedding sustainability across their entire portfolio of 18 properties. By committing to Ecotourism Australia’s internationally recognised certification programs, YHA is aligning its operations with global best practice and showing true leadership in sustainable tourism. “For travellers, trusted certification gives confidence that their choices make a real difference, and when a well-recognised network like YHA adopts rigorous, independently assessed standards, it sends a clear message that sustainable tourism can be both meaningful and accessible, while supporting nature and local communities. “We thank the YHA team for trusting Ecotourism Australia as their partner in this journey, and we look forward to continuing to work together as YHA champions sustainable tourism across Australia.” YHA Australia’s achievement reflects a whole-of-portfolio approach to sustainability, supported by its Sustainable Properties Fund, which invests in initiatives to reduce energy use, carbon emissions, waste and water consumption across its network. Projects include renewable energy installations, solar hot water systems, smart building technology, and water conservation measures such as rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling. Waste reduction is embedded across the portfolio through comprehensive recycling, composting of organic waste, and the elimination of plastic bottled water in favour of refill stations and reusable alternatives. Community initiatives, including guest swap shelves and food sharing programs, sit alongside a genuine commitment to First Nations engagement connecting guests with Indigenous-led experiences, cultural programming, and community partnerships that deepen what sustainable travel means. YHA Australia CEO, Paul McGrath said that YHA Australia’s 87 years of community-focused, affordable accommodation prove that sustainable travel and accessible properties aren’t mutually exclusive. “We are exceptionally proud that all 18 of our properties have now achieved certification with Ecotourism Australia, making us the first accommodation network in the country to achieve 100% Certification across our entire portfolio. “Increasingly, travellers want to know not just where they go but how the places they stay align with their values, and Ecotourism Australia’s certification offers those travellers a clear and trustworthy answer. Ecotourism Australia’s certification provides us with a globally recognised benchmark to apply consistently across our network, which is a clear competitive advantage for YHA.” The certified properties are: ECO Certification YHA Apollo Bay Eco (VIC) YHA Grampians Eco (VIC) Sustainable Tourism Certification YHA Adelaide Central (SA) YHA Blue Mountains (NSW) YHA Brisbane City (QLD) YHA Byron Bay (NSW) YHA Cairns Central (QLD) YHA Cape Byron (NSW) YHA Coolangatta (QLD) YHA Fremantle Prison (WA) YHA Hobart Central (TAS) YHA Melbourne Central (VIC) YHA Newcastle Beach (NSW) YHA Pittwater Eco (NSW) YHA Port Elliot (SA) YHA Sydney Central (NSW) YHA Sydney Harbour (NSW) YHA Thredbo (NSW) YHA Australia CEO Paul McGrath will present at Ecotourism Australia’s flagship Global Sustainable Tourism Summit on the Gold Coast in June, exploring YHA’s approach to how purpose and profit intersect - where bold sustainability missions drive success and profits fuel further impact. Achieving global best-practice Sustainable Tourism Certification and ECO Certification is a meticulous process, involving more than 200 key criteria across four pillars of sustainability. Ecotourism Australia’s certification programs involve an initial third-party audit to award certification followed by periodic independent audits to maintain certification and demonstrate ongoing commitment to responsible practices. Accommodation providers who have obtained ECO or Sustainable Tourism Certification from Ecotourism Australia benefit from formal global recognition across leading international booking channels, ensuring their independently verified sustainability performance is acknowledged and trusted by global distribution partners and travellers worldwide. Background YHA Australia partnered with Ecotourism Australia in 2024 to work towards certifying their entire network of 18 properties across Australia. The partnership builds on the existing long-standing certification of YHA Apollo Bay Eco and YHA Grampians Eco, who achieved ECO Certification in 2007. Over the past two years, 16 YHA properties have achieved Sustainable Tourism Certification, with the network (18) achieving full certification on 16 January 2026. YHA will announce this achievement with a media roundtable at YHA Sydney Harbour on Monday 30 March, to coincide with additional YHA achievements in recent months. END Media contacts: Ecotourism Australia – Myv Costelloe, Stakeholder Engagement Managere: myv@ecotourism.org.auph: (07) 3256 6777 YHA Australia – Alice Rose, PEPR Agencye: alice@pepr.com.auph: 0467 577 555 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 YHA Australia YHA Australia is a for-purpose, membership-based organisation that has been providing travellers with quality, affordable accommodation for over 85 years. Operating a network of 18 properties nationwide, YHA Australia offers diverse accommodation options from private rooms to co-living spaces, featuring modern amenities including pools, communal kitchens, wellness spaces, cafes and rooftop bars. As part of Hostelling International (HI), YHA Australia connects to a global network of over 3,000 unique properties across more than 70 countries, enabling seamless travel experiences worldwide. YHA Australia is committed to evolving alongside modern traveller expectations while staying true to its core mission of creating communities, caring for the environment, and connecting people with authentic local experiences. Recent investments include substantial property renovations across key city locations in 2023 and 2024, the launch of the YHA Explorer app in late 2024, and the introduction of digital wallet keys in 2025. Through continuous reinvestment and strategic development, YHA Australia is evolving beyond traditional accommodation to offer a comprehensive travel experience for budget-conscious travellers. By integrating cutting edge technology with community-focused spaces, food and beverage offerings, and authentic local experiences, YHA Australia maintains its position as the country's leading low-cost accommodation provider. For more information on YHA Australia, please visit yha.com.au.
RACV resorts achieve Australian-first Advanced Sustainable Tourism rating
RACV Resorts achieve Australian-first Advanced Sustainable Tourism rating Ecotourism Australia proudly recognises RACV’s portfolio of Club and Resorts for achieving Sustainable Tourism Certification across all ten properties, with two hotels becoming the first in Australia to attain Advanced Sustainable Tourism Certification. This achievement reflects a consistent, enterprise-wide commitment to sustainable tourism and is particularly significant for RACV Noosa Resort on the Sunshine Coast and RACV Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast, which have achieved the highest tier of Advanced Sustainable Tourism Certification. Ecotourism Australia Chief Executive Officer, Elissa Keenan, praised RACV for its proactive and strategic approach. “RACV’s accomplishment sends a powerful message to the broader tourism industry that sustainability at scale is achievable and delivers real value for people, place, planet and purpose. “By attaining Advanced Sustainable Tourism Certification across two flagship resorts and certifying their entire portfolio, RACV is demonstrating that large operators can be trailblazers, not just in adopting innovative practices, but in embedding them in a way that inspires others to follow,” Ms Keenan said. Craig Peachey, Executive General Manager, Leisure at RACV, said the milestone is a testament to the dedication of teams across the organisation. "Achieving Sustainable Tourism Certification across our entire leisure portfolio is a proud moment, but more than anything it's a reflection of the people behind it, our resort teams who show up every day with a genuine commitment to doing things better. Our goal has always been to make sustainability a real and meaningful part of how we operate. This certification is an independent check that what we're doing stands up to scrutiny and recognises the choices that add up to real change – running on renewable electricity where possible, harvesting rainwater for irrigation and a multi-year de-gasification program. To see that effort acknowledged across our entire portfolio is incredibly rewarding, and to have RACV Noosa Resort and RACV Royal Pines Resort become the first properties in Australia to achieve Advanced Sustainable Tourism Certification is something the whole team should be enormously proud of.” By achieving global best practice Sustainable Tourism Certification at all ten of their Club and Resorts, RACV reinforces that sustainability is not an isolated initiative but a core pillar of its business strategy. Every RACV property across Victoria, Tasmania and Queensland now meets Ecotourism Australia’s rigorous Sustainable Tourism Certification standards, ensuring consistency in environmental management, community engagement and responsible operations across the portfolio. The newly certified properties are: RACV Noosa Resort (Advanced Sustainable Tourism Certification) (QLD) RACV Royal Pines Resort (Advanced Sustainable Tourism Certification) (QLD) RACV Cape Schanck Resort (VIC) RACV City Club (VIC) RACV Cobram Resort (VIC) RACV Goldfields Resort (VIC) RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort (VIC) RACV Inverloch Resort (VIC) RACV Torquay Resort (VIC) RACV Hobart Hotel (TAS) RACV Noosa Resort and RACV Royal Pines Resort have implemented a particularly comprehensive suite of sustainability initiatives, resulting in both resorts being awarded Advanced Sustainable Tourism Certification. Both resorts operate on renewable energy where possible and offer electric vehicle infrastructure for guests. RACV Noosa Resort offsets its LPG emissions through a Climate Active certified carbon-neutral program, and its staff contribute to local reforestation through Tourism Noosa’s Tread Lightly program. RACV Royal Pines Resort engages in environmental stewardship via Clean Up Australia Day and supports local conservation initiatives including the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and the Containers for Change scheme. All RACV properties offer guests the option to opt out of their daily housekeeping service and instead support local community partners through their Go Green and Give program. Collectively, these efforts demonstrate leadership in sustainable management, social responsibility, cultural engagement and environmental stewardship. Achieving global best-practice Sustainable Tourism Certification is a meticulous process, involving more than 200 key criteria across four pillars of sustainability. Ecotourism Australia’s certification programs involve an initial third-party audit to award certification followed by periodic independent audits to maintain certification and demonstrate ongoing commitment to responsible practices. Accommodation providers who have obtained Sustainable Tourism Certification from Ecotourism Australia benefit from formal global recognition across leading international booking channels, ensuring their independently verified sustainability performance is acknowledged and trusted by global distribution partners and travellers worldwide. END Media contacts: Ecotourism Australia – Myv Costelloe, Stakeholder Engagement Manager e: myv@ecotourism.org.au ph: (07) 3256 6777 RACV – Media Team e: media@racv.com.au ph: 0417 041 398 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 RACV RACV (Royal Automobile Club of Victoria) is one of Australia's most trusted member organisations, serving members and customers across motoring and mobility, home, energy and leisure since 1903. RACV is Victoria's largest member organisation and operates with a core purpose of improving lives. RACV's leisure portfolio includes resorts located at Cape Schanck, Cobram, Creswick, Healesville, Inverloch, Torquay, Noosa, the Gold Coast and Hobart, as well as RACV Club in Melbourne's CBD. Committed to responsible business practices, RACV is dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences for its members while contributing positively to the communities and environments in which it operates.
Summit Speakers
GSTS26 Summit SpeakersWelcome to the Global Sustainable Tourism Summit, where the world’s leading sustainability changemakers, innovators and industry leaders take the stage to share insights, experiences and strategies. Over four days, our speakers will showcase global best practices in destinations and businesses, demonstrating how sustainable tourism delivers real value for people, place, planet and purpose. Discover our inspiring speaker lineup below! Jana Apih began her career at the Slovenian Tourist Board and later co-founded the GoodPlace Institute, helping develop and implement Slovenia’s Green Scheme for sustainable tourism. She has advised destinations internationally, co-authored Slovenia’s tourism strategy and in 2024 became Executive Director of the Green Destinations Foundation.Timothy Teo leads Borneo Eco Tours and its sister lodges Sukau Rainforest Lodge and Utan Rainforest Lodge in Borneo. A former civil engineer with an MBA from the Australian Graduate School of Management, he has spent over 15 years advancing sustainable wildlife tourism and pioneering award-winning rainforest lodge experiences in Malaysia.Adam McEwan is a tourism entrepreneur known for pioneering luxury and sustainable travel experiences in the UAE. After visiting 140 countries, he built a career across cruise and airline tourism before co-founding Platinum Heritage and later Hero Experiences Group. His ventures blend cultural authenticity with environmental responsibility, helping redefine high-end adventure tourism globally. Darren McClenaghan has managed RACV Noosa Resort for over 15 years, leading the five-star property to multiple tourism and business awards. A strong advocate for sustainable tourism, he guided the resort to Advanced ECO Certification with Ecotourism Australia and contributed to the regional visitor economy through service on the Tourism Noosa Board.Diana Mulholland is Tourism Experience and Sector Development Leader at Tourism and Events Queensland, leading the refresh of Queensland’s nature-based tourism strategy and guiding the Queensland Guiding Community of Practice. A former ecotourism guide, she has held diverse roles at TEQ since 2005, focusing on visitor experiences, environmental stewardship, and sustainable tourism development. Garrett Tyler-Parker is Director of Analysis & Insights at Tourism Research Australia, where he turns complex data into practical insights for the tourism sector. With 15+ years’ experience in market research and strategy across Australia and Thailand, Garrett has held senior roles in the private sector, local and federal government.Jason Lyddieth is the Campaign Manager for the National 30by30 Campaign with The Pew Charitable Trusts. Previously he has worked for the Australian Conservation Foundation, Solar Citizens and Greenpeace Australia Pacific.Kristy Malapa is General Manager of Untamed Escapes, an Australian tour operator delivering nature, wildlife and cultural experiences across South Australia, Western Australia and the Northern Territory. With two decades in tourism, including Tourism Australia, she champions regenerative tourism that protects ecosystems, supports communities and strengthens Indigenous partnerships.Louise and her partner David are environmentalists and food lovers turned farmers, blending award-winning lamb production with habitat protection and eco-agritourism in the Riverina Highlands of New South Wales. Their farm prioritises biodiversity and ecosystem health, while their acclaimed Kestrel Nest EcoHut reinvests 20% of guest fees into conservation and environmental restoration.Paul was appointed CEO of YHA Australia in 2020, leading a comprehensive transformation during the pandemic. He modernised operations, rebranded the organisation, upgraded infrastructure, expanded food and beverage offerings, and launched the Travel to Learn Foundation. His leadership strengthened YHA’s connection with guests while maintaining affordable, contemporary accommodation.Phil commenced at Paralympics Australia in 2024, having worked across the sport, major events and tourism sectors in local and state government over the past 20 years. As the peak body for Para sport and the National Paralympic Committee responsible for the Australian Paralympic Team, Phil is heavily engaged in planning for Brisbane 2032. He works with key stakeholders to embed Universal Design principles in all elements of Games planning and advocates for Para sport, inclusion and accessibility legacy outcomes.Penny Spoelder is an internationally recognised sustainable tourism and climate resilience expert with over 20 years’ experience across Australia and the Pacific. She advises global organisations and governments, translating frameworks into practical, locally led solutions, and leads Global Instinct Consulting while serving as Senior Associate at TRC Tourism.Robert Taylor, a Nhanda Yamaji man, has over 38 years in hospitality and tourism. As CEO of WAITOC, he has developed 39 Aboriginal businesses, secured multi-level funding, and transformed the organisation into a leader in business development, fostering sustainable, culturally respectful and diversified Aboriginal tourism.Tai Lennon is a sustainability and tourism leader with over a decade of executive experience. Previously with the Morris Group, Tai has led Ecotourism and Climate Action Certifications across multiple premium tourism properties and developed the group’s first sustainability strategy and Modern Slavery Statement. Tai now works with tourism and hospitality operators to transform sustainability data into operational and commercial advantage. Stay tuned - more speakers to be announced soon! *Please note that the speaker lineup is subject to change, and Ecotourism Australia reserves the right to substitute speakers at their discretion. Looking to showcase your brand and support sustainable tourism? Explore the opportunities to partner with the Summit by reviewing our Sponsorship Prospectus here.Summit PartnerHost Sponsor Summit Sponsors Keep up to date with the latest Summit details.
W Sydney becomes first in portfolio to achieve Sustainable Tourism Certification
W Sydney Awarded Sustainable Tourism Certification W Sydney has been awarded Sustainable Tourism Certification by Ecotourism Australia, marking a significant milestone in the hotel’s ongoing commitment to a new generation of responsible luxury. The certification recognises a whole-of-hotel approach to sustainability embedded across energy efficiency, water management, waste reduction and community impact, reflecting initiatives that have been in place since the hotel’s opening and the growing expectation from today’s travellers for brands that operate responsibly within their communities. From infrastructure through to the guest experience, sustainability at W Sydney is embedded across every layer of the hotel’s operations. The hotel features a 100,000-litre rainwater harvesting system supporting cooling and air-conditioning, complimentary electric vehicle charging stations, and in-room amenities from B-Corp certified partners. Across its culinary venues, menus champions seasonal NSW produce, Good Fish-certified seafood and ingredients sourced from regenerative farms and regional producers, while partnerships such as Veolia’s food-to-biofuel program help convert kitchen waste into renewable energy and support a circular approach to hospitality. Community engagement is central to the hotel’s sustainability strategy. W Sydney partners with Foodbank NSW & ACT to redistribute surplus food and supports local environmental initiatives, including the Glebe Bay oyster shell recycling and restoration program. Guided by Marriott International’s Serve 360 platform and W Hotels STANCE passion point - which champions progress through community, culture and conscious impact - the team continues to reduce single-use plastics, strengthen local procurement and enhance transparency around sustainability performance. “At W Sydney, sustainability isn’t a standalone initiative; it’s part of how modern luxury should operate,” said Titus Rosier, General Manager of W Sydney. “Today’s traveller expects more from the brands they engage with. They want experiences that are not only design-led and culturally connected, but also responsible. Achieving Sustainable Tourism Certification reflects the work our team has done from day one to embed conscious practices across everything we do; from infrastructure and operations through to the partners we collaborate with and the communities we support.” Elissa Keenan, CEO of Ecotourism Australia, commended the hotel for their innovative approach to sustainability. “Congratulations to the team at W Sydney for taking this important step on their sustainability journey. By embracing globally recognised sustainable tourism standards, the hotel demonstrates how the hospitality sector can actively support both the environment and the communities it serves. We are particularly proud to recognise W Sydney as the first W Hotels property in Australia to achieve Sustainable Tourism Certification." Sustainable Tourism Certification is awarded against more than 200 criteria spanning environmental stewardship, socio-economic impact, cultural responsibility and sustainable management practices, reinforcing W Sydney’s commitment to responsible luxury in the heart of Darling Harbour. As the hotel continues to evolve, sustainability remains central to its vision, shaping how it operates, collaborates with its community and defines the future of luxury hospitality in Australia. END Media contacts: Ecotourism Australia – Myv Costelloe, Stakeholder Engagement Manager e: myv@ecotourism.org.au ph: (07) 3256 6777 W Sydney – Olivia Hargreaves (BLACK Communications) e: olivia.hargreaves@blackcommunications.com.au ph: +61 414 226 413 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 W Hotels Born from the social electricity of New York City, W Hotels has been at the forefront of lifestyle hospitality for over two decades. With over 70 destinations around the world, the detail-driven design, signature Whatever/Whenever service, and buzzing Living Rooms cultivate experiences of social connectivity. Each location brings together the magnetic energy of W Hotels and the essence of local culture, creating spaces for new perspectives and a freedom of self-expression. W Hotels is currently undergoing a multi-year brand evolution, to meet the needs of today’s guest and deliver a new generation of luxury lifestyle experiences. For more information on W Hotels, visit w-hotels.com and stay connected on Instagram, TikTok, X, Facebook, and YouTube. W Hotels is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including complimentary nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.marriott.com.
Feedback and Complaints
Cradle Mountain Huts Overland Track Walk, TASFeedback and ComplaintsEcotourism Australia is committed to managing feedback and complaints in a transparent, ethical and fair manner, consistent with Australian best-practice complaint-handling principles. We value feedback as an important part of maintaining trust, accountability and the integrity of our certification and membership programs. All complaints are assessed objectively, handled confidentially, and managed in a timely and respectful way, with due regard to procedural fairness for all parties involved. This Complaint Management Policy applies to complaints lodged and reviewed about certified operators, destinations and members, as well as complaints relating to the conduct of staff, Board members, contractors and volunteers. Complaints are assessed on their merits and managed in accordance with our Code of Conduct and Terms and Conditions. While we welcome robust feedback, all parties engaging with us are expected to communicate respectfully and appropriately. We are committed to upholding respectful, ethical and professional conduct in all interactions between all stakeholders, Ecotourism Australia, our staff, management, Board members, contractors, volunteers and members. This includes communicating in a courteous, honest and constructive manner, acting in good faith, and treating all individuals with dignity and respect. To lodge a complaint, please submit your concern in writing to eco@ecotourism.org.au, clearly outlining the issue and providing any relevant supporting information. We will acknowledge receipt of your complaint and advise you of the next steps in the review process.
Gold Coast to host 2026 Global Sustainable Tourism Summit
Gold Coast announced as host of the 2026 Global Sustainable Tourism Summit Ecotourism Australia is delighted to announce the return of highly successful Global Sustainable Tourism Summit, with the Gold Coast named the official host destination for 2026. Supported by Tourism Australia and proudly hosted by the City of Gold Coast, the Global Sustainable Tourism Summit will take place between Tuesday 2 – Friday 5 June 2026. The Summit will bring together sustainability changemakers and innovators to explore how the Australian visitor economy can better champion the four pillars of sustainability through driving positive environmental outcomes, protecting and celebrating culture, creating meaningful socio-economic benefits, and building resilient, future-focused businesses. “As the peak body for eco and sustainable tourism in the Australia and Pacific region, we are proud to again host the Global Sustainable Tourism Summit. This event is a significant opportunity for our industry to learn, share and be inspired to create change and ensure that tourism is a catalyst for positive change,” said Elissa Keenan, CEO of Ecotourism Australia. “The Summit will unite our industry to learn, exchange ideas, and inspire action. Guided by expert voices from across Australia and the world, participants will discover how global best practice can shape the future of Australian tourism. “Together, we’ll ensure we continue to meet global travel demand while setting the standard for sustainability and innovation. We’re so pleased to bring the Summit to the Gold Coast in 2026 - a region that has an increasing focus on developing ecotourism and nature-positive tourism experiences.” The Gold Coast is home to a high number of Ecotourism Australia-certified operators, with over 30 ECO and Sustainable Tourism Certified businesses located in the region. Further supporting this growth, the City of Gold Coast’s nature-based tourism grant program is helping more businesses realise their sustainability goals, whether by creating low-impact, immersive experiences that promote environmental and cultural conservation, or through pursuing global best practice certification with Ecotourism Australia. “It’s fitting the Gold Coast has been chosen as host of this international conference,” said Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate. “The conference's four pillars align with work that council and private enterprise is currently undertaking to improve not only sustainability outcomes but to better support and promote cultural awareness within the industry."Through partnerships, we can learn so much more and I look forward to welcoming all delegates to our city in 2026." The Global Sustainable Tourism Summit will be hosted at the Mercure Gold Coast Resort, a Sustainable Tourism Certified hotel since 2024. The Mercure was chosen as a shining example of a venue that has made significant steps to reduce their environmental footprint, including by installing over 200 solar panels, hosting on-site worm farms to produce compost for their gardens and a ‘Bee Native’ project that sees on-site bee hives placed around the property to encourage pollination and support biodiversity. The Mercure has eliminated single-use plastics and created a ‘Clean for Green’ program whereby guests who opt out of having their linens replaced each day received a food and beverage credit. The Summit stands as a flagship event on the international sustainable tourism calendar, creating a dynamic platform for delegates to connect, share knowledge and collaborate on the most pressing sustainability issues facing the tourism sector. The program for the Summit will span three days, including 1.5 day conference, two social functions, and an optional destination immersion program. Early bird tickets for the Global Sustainable Tourism Summit 2026 are on sale now, with significant discounts for Ecotourism Australia members. END Media contacts: Ecotourism Australia – Myv Costelloe, Stakeholder Engagement Manager e: myv@ecotourism.org.au ph: (07) 3256 6777 City of Gold Coast – Mayor's Media Team e: mayormedia@goldcoast.qld.gov.au ph: 0439 226 509 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 2300 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.