Ecotourism booming in Australia

A national organisation has recently reported the significant benefits of ecotourism in Australia.

Ecotourism is a pressing matter on the Surf Coast, with Eden Project deep into discussions with council about the construction of a $150 million ecotourism attraction at Anglesea’s old coal mine.

Eden Project recently estimated the attraction would create 1,300 new jobs and bring $350 million in benefits to Anglesea.

Ecotourism Australia report that the ecotourism industry currently delivers over 14,000 direct jobs and $1.6 billion annual revenue for the country.

To gain certification as an ecotourism site, the tourism must be in a natural area that optimises its resources, leave minimal impact on the environment, provide an interesting way for visitors to learn about the environment, and contribute to conserving the environment and helping the local community.

Ecotourism Australia chief executive officer Rod Hillman says the data makes the benefits of ecotourism clear.

“Ecotourism is an important contributor to sustainable and thriving regional communities,” Hillman said.

“Ecotourism businesses create and maintain sustainable employment and bring – and keep – revenue in regions.”

Of all Ecotourism Australia’s members, 96 per cent operate in rural or regional Australia.

Eden Project have had a lot of positive feedback in Anglesea. But the development of the ecotourism site on the old Alcoa mine is still not guaranteed, as they are currently waiting to learn whether the planning process will go through council or the state government.