National Sustainability Framework for the Visitor Economy

Governments are working with industry to make the Australian visitor economy more sustainable and ensure its future success.

The Australian Government, and state and territory governments have endorsed the National Sustainability Framework for the Visitor Economy.

Key points

Sustainable tourism preserves Australia’s natural and cultural assets, and respects local communities. It is central to the visitor economy’s future success.

This is recognised in Australia’s long-term visitor economy strategy, THRIVE 2030.

The National Sustainability Framework for the Visitor Economy outlines 4 pillars of sustainable tourism:

1. taking a managed approach to sustainability
2. implementing environmental and climate action
3. respecting culture
4. creating positive social impact.

The framework:

• puts these pillars in an Australian context
• sets out priorities for action across the 4 pillars.

The framework’s ambition is that, in the future, ‘Australia is a world leader in sustainable tourism, delivered by thriving businesses that protect the environment, respect and nurture cultures, and empower local communities.’

Green is Our Gold

Green is Our Gold is a sustainability initiative for the Australian tourism and visitor economy led by Tourism Australia. It is an industry-wide rally cry to protect the environments, cultures, and communities that make Australia a world-class destination.

All Australian tourism businesses are invited to join the Green and Gold Promise, committing to the collective industry vision for sustainable tourism as outlined in our National Sustainability Framework for the Visitor Economy.

Those that join will gain access to a new toolkit with five simple principles designed to shape responsible visitor behaviour and practices. Find out more at tourism.australia.com/greenandgold.

Contact us

For more information about the National Sustainability Framework for the Visitor Economy, email VisitorEconomy@austrade.gov.au.