Ecotourism Australia celebrates 35 years of sustainable tourism certification
Ecotourism Australia marks its 35th anniversary, highlighting three decades of sustainable tourism certification across Australia and the Pacific. The milestone reflects the organisation's ongoing role for certified operators and the wider tourism sector.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- No regulatory changes announced, focus remains on certification standards
- Timing
- Celebration announced on 3 November 2026
- Who is affected
- Certified tourism operators, prospective applicants and eco‑focused travellers
The details
Milestone announcement
Ecotourism Australia announced its 35th anniversary on 3 November 2026. The organisation, founded in 1991, highlighted its role in promoting sustainable tourism through a national certification programme launched in 1996.
Certification reach
Since its inception, the body has certified roughly 2,500 tours, attractions and accommodation providers across Australia and the Pacific. Recognition from platforms such as Booking.com and Google underscores its influence on international sustainability standards.
Future direction
The board, led by newly appointed Chair Caroline Densley, intends to maintain rigorous standards while expanding the certified community. It also plans to advocate for supportive government policies, emphasizing the importance of independent third‑party certification.
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Existing bookings with certified operators continue unchanged.
- Travelers can still seek out Ecotourism Australia‑certified experiences for sustainable options.
Cost and documents
- No new fees or documentation requirements are introduced.
- Current certification fees for operators remain as previously set.
What you need to do
- Certified operators should maintain compliance with existing standards.
- Prospective applicants can continue to apply under the current certification process.
Who this affects
-
Current certified operators
They are part of the 2,500 providers recognised by Ecotourism Australia.
What to do Continue to meet existing certification criteria.
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Prospective certification applicants
They may wish to join the growing community of certified sustainable tourism businesses.
What to do Submit applications following the established process.
-
Eco‑focused travellers
They look for Ecotourism Australia‑certified experiences when planning trips.
Frequently asked questions
What does Ecotourism Australia's 35th anniversary mean for travellers?
It signals continued commitment to sustainable tourism standards, meaning travellers can rely on the certification as a mark of environmental responsibility when choosing tours and accommodation.
Are there new certification requirements announced?
No new requirements were announced; the organisation reaffirmed its existing rigorous standards and plans to maintain them.
How many operators are currently certified by Ecotourism Australia?
Approximately 2,500 tours, attractions and accommodation providers across Australia and the Pacific hold certification.
Will the anniversary affect the cost of certification?
The announcement did not mention any change to certification fees, so costs remain as previously established.
Who leads Ecotourism Australia after the anniversary?
Caroline Densley has been appointed Chair of the board and will guide the organisation during this milestone year.
