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Sustainable tourism

Sustainable tourism protects Australia’s and our state's unique natural and cultural assets. 

Sustainability is essential to the future success of every tourism business and to the sector itself. It is about balancing economic, social and environmental factors to achieve long-term success.

To find out more about sustainability and making your tourism business more sustainable, check out the resources below.

 

Key resources

  • EU Directive: Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition
  • Tourism Australia Green is our Gold
  • AUSTRADE sustainability framework and toolkit
  • TICSA Quality Tourism Business Accreditation
  • TICSA EcoStar Accreditation
  • EcoTourism Australia Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard
  • The Aussie Travel Code
  • Sustainable travel in South Australia

EU Directive: Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition

The European Union's 'Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive' comes into effect on 27 September 2026. It applies to any tourism business promoting their product to an EU audience.

The directive aims to tackle “greenwashing” through introducing new requirements for environmental and social claims made to consumers in the EU.

Businesses will need to ensure any claims they make about their product sustainability, carbon off-setting and emission reduction plans avoid vague terminology and can be substantiated through third parties. 

This is also an opportunity for all South Australian businesses to consider how they reframe their sustainability communications to consumers.

To support operators in preparing for these changes, Tourism Australia (TA) has developed a resource, including a checklist on what you can do to prepare your business. A webinar recording from 21 August 2026 is also available.

Sustainable storytelling

In 2024, Tourism Australia and Earthcheck developed guidelines to help businesses and destinations communicate their sustainability efforts with global audiences. These are practical tools that will help enhance your sustainability messaging and are aimed at those who already have sustainability policies, commitments, or action plans in place.

https://www.tourism.australia.com/en/about/our-organisation/sustainable-tourism-statement.html 

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Acknowledgement of Country

Standing on Kaurna Country, the South Australian Tourism Commission recognises the uniquely diverse Aboriginal communities across the state.

We value the knowledge Aboriginal people hold of Country and culture and are committed to growing genuine relationships with Traditional Custodians.

We will continue our journey of reconciliation and support Aboriginal tourism operators and communities to tell their own stories and share their culture with the world.

Aboriginal flag Torres Strait Islander flag

Kaurna Yartangka yuwanthi, South Australian Tourism Commisionriu tampinthi wiwurra Yaitya Miyurna kuma parnaku Pirkurna Kanthipartu‑arra.

Ngadiu yurikaityanthi, Yaitya Miyurnaku ngutu yartaku kuma Tapa‑Purruna. Ngadlu nilputa tika‑apirringutha Yaitya. Yarta‑Mathanyarna‑ityangka.

Ngadluku tapa nguyanguya murititya ngadlu muinmurningutha. Ngadlu karrpatha Yaitya Miyurna Mikarri‑apipinarna kuma Pirkurna, parnakunta pirrkurna kuma parnaku Tapa‑Purruna yungkurringutha, marngu‑ityangka.

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