Nature-based tourism is a significant component of Queensland's visitor economy, ranking among top travel motivators for international visitors to the country. 

Our national heritage and natural assets provides us with a unique competitive advantage in the global market - but it must be appropriately protected, managed and developed.
     Moran Falls

Queensland Ecotourism Plan

The draft Queensland Ecotourism Plan 2015-2020 was released by the Department of National Parks, Recreation, Sport and Racing (NPSR) at the 2015 DestinationQ Forum. The plan provides operators, government, community and other stakeholders with clear direction on how Queensland can leverage its competitive advantages, while conserving the natural environment. The vision:

                     Ecotourism vision statement


This vision will be achieved through five strategic priorities:
  1. Driving innovation in ecotourism experiences
  2. Showcasing the world renowned Great Barrier Reef
  3. Stimulating investment in new and refurbished ecotourism opportunities
  4. Expanding authentic Indigenous ecotourism experiences
  5. Promoting Queensland's world-class ecotourism experiences
       Cape Hillsborough Kangaroos on the beach

Delivering world-class experiences

Today’s travellers are looking for a higher level of engagement that connects them with the essence of a place and its people. National Parks have launched a new brand to explore Queensland's most unforgettable experiences in nature. Insights into how to deliver memorable experiences can be found at teq.queensland.com/experiencedevelopment.

Research

A number of research pieces were conducted to understand environmental initiates in Queensland:
  • Tourism Operators Environmental Benchmark 2010
  • Fact Sheet - Queensland Tourism Industry Carbon Footprint
  • Fact Sheet - Queensland Environmental Indicators 2010

For more information visit teq.queensland.com/research.



Ecotourism accreditation


Ecotourism Australia offers a number of ecotourism certification programs which can be beneficial for your business. More information is available on their website.