Every voice needed in outdoors industry census

Looking to assess the scale of the outdoor industry - including outdoor education, outdoor recreation and adventure tourism - Outdoors NSW and ACT is inviting input to a census and is inviting active industry participation.

Conducted annually in January, this census aims to track industry changes, identify trends and gather crucial data.

Explaining its importance, Outdoors NSW and ACT Chief Executive, Lori Modde advises “this goes beyond a mere need for a peak body's understanding - it's about advocating for policy changes vital to the industry's well-being.”

Mindful that the outdoor industry suffered greatly during the pandemic, Modde states “at a time when the world came to a halt, the outdoor industry found itself unable to quantify its losses. The unmeasured number of outdoor participants, the jobs that should have thrived in the open air, and the lost turnovers - all remain unquantified, leaving a void that persists to this day.

“Outdoors Queensland led the way with the initial trial of the Outdoor Census. After NSW & ACT conduct theirs, we'll be able to benchmark against Queensland and collectively raise the bar at a national level, fostering a more informed industry setting.

“The mantle rests upon you - the outdoor businesses and organisations - to contribute your accurate, anonymous data for the greater good of the industry. Your participation will ensure that the policies enacted serve your interests in both the short and long term.”

Submissions are now open requiring just 10 minutes of contributors time, closing on 31st January 2024.

Modde added “we extend our gratitude in advance for your participation, eagerly anticipating the summary that will empower us all to advocate on behalf of our industry.”

Click here to contribute before 31st January.

Image: Rock climbing at Mt Alexandra. Credit: The Outdoor Education Group.