ATIC spotlights role of accreditation in delivering quality tourism experiences

Following the announcement of the 2023 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards on Friday night, the Australian Tourism Industry Council (ATIC) has spotlighted the role of accreditation in supporting businesses to deliver quality tourism experiences.

Over 88% of businesses awarded at the 2023 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards are Quality Tourism Accredited Businesses.

57 of the Gold, Silver and Bronze winners also held Sustainable Tourism Accreditation, meeting the higher business standards of environmental management and sustainable tourism operations. This strong representation of Quality Tourism and Sustainable Tourism accredited businesses was a true testament to the incredible outcomes possible for businesses that achieve accreditation through the Quality Tourism Framework suite of programs.

Erin McLeod, Chief Executive, Australian Tourism Industry Council notes “these businesses are continuously developing their products and services to provide exceptional visitor experience. This has positioned them well to take out top honours and continue to develop and grow their business further.

“The Quality Tourism Framework not only supports businesses in their efforts for success, but also provides the wider community with peace of mind and confidence when making their travel choices by highlighting reliable, quality tourism products and services through the Quality Tourism Accredited Business brandmark.”

The Qantas Australian Tourism Awards recognise and celebrate businesses that have demonstrated a commitment to quality tourism products and experiences. It is the pinnacle event for the tourism industry, with close to 700 representatives from across Australia coming together to celebrate.

Erin McLeod, CEO, Australian Tourism Industry Council adds “The Australian Tourism Awards are the tourism industry’s most prestigious awards which showcases innovation and business excellence.

“There was an exceptional level of competition across all categories which demonstrates the dedication tourism operators have to developing extraordinary visitor experiences.”

During 2023 awards gala, it was announced that Adelaide, South Australia would be the official Host Destination for the 2024 Australian Tourism Awards.

The 2023 awards were supported by returning naming rights sponsor, Qantas, as well as Platinum Sponsor, Tourism Australia, and Host Partners, the Northern Territory Government and Tourism NT. The awards were also supported by numerous Partners and Sponsors including GetAboutAble, the Big Red Group, Darwin Convention Centre, the Airport Development Group and Signature Media.

The list of National winners is included here 

Image. Ocean Rafting Queensland secured gold for Adventure Tourism 

Ocean Rafting’s environmental sustainability philosophy is as follows “The Ocean Rafting team are proud ambassadors for environmentally responsible, ethical, educational and sustainable tourism. The owners and crew are passionate about their duty in protecting the future of the Great Barrier Reef, adopting environmentally friendly practices into everyday operations. Ocean Rafting directly aligns its operations to its values, in particular environmental protection, management, education and overall sustainability as proud environmental guardians.”

Ocean Rafting holds Advanced Ecotourism Certification, is a Green Travel Leader and a Climate Action Business. As an Advanced Ecotourism Operator, Ocean Rafting has been accepted as a GBRMPA High Standard Tourism Operator and has been entered into the coveted Ecotourism Australia Hall of Fame for being continuously certified for 20 years or longer.