Edition 202 · April 2025

We welcome short stories on innovations, and success stories and stories that reflect the positive things that the tourism industry is doing to ensure that the industry returns and re-builds.

Submit stories to editor@tourforce.com

Australian beer brand Lion has teamed up with the Great Barrier Reef Foundation to support work to restore vital seagrass meadows. The XXXX Tropical project was established to help local farmers in the Lower Burdekin implement innovative practices aimed at improving water quality flowing into the Great Barrier Reef over the next three years.

Further information: https://www.barrierreef.org/what-we-do/partners/corporate-partners/in-partnership-with-xxxx

Tourism Northern Territory is providing grant funding to support Northern Territory tourism businesses through their distribution journey. The Tourism Distribution Grant Program 2024-25 is available to support initiatives including an online booking system, translation services and exploring international emerging markets of China, Japan and Singapore. Applications close 30 April 2025.

Further information: https://tourismnt.com.au/industry-toolkit/grants-funding/tourism-distribution-grant-program

The Western Australian Government has a new funding program to support tourism developers and operators in undertaking feasibility studies, cultural heritage assessments, site surveys, fauna and flora surveys, coastal assessments and master planning. The Unique Tourist Accommodation Proposals program aims to create a pipeline of unique accommodation offerings that are defined by a distinctive design, location or experience. Applications close on 2 May 2025.

Further information: https://www.tourism.wa.gov.au/news-and-events/newsroom/west-australian-tourism-accommodation-at-forefront-of-new-grants-scheme

Hurtigruten has released its updated plans for its Sea Zero Project or zero-emission ship scheduled to debut in 2030. It integrates several innovative solutions created in collaboration with partners from the Norwegian maritime industry including large batteries and sails that will allow the ship to be emission-free during normal operation.

Further information: https://press.hurtigruten.com/pressreleases/hurtigruten-reveals-updated-plans-for-its-zero-emission-cruise-ship-of-the-future-3348173

Brisbane Airport, the main gateway for Queensland, is becoming one of Australia’s first airports to achieve net zero emissions by being powered entirely by renewable-backed electricity. This will operate everything from check-in systems, baggage conveyors, air conditioning, departure screens, escalators, electric ground services equipment, and runway lights. Emissions have also been cut using renewable energy from Stanwell, onsite solar, a fleet of electric vehicles and offsets via native bush regeneration in southwest Queensland.

Further information: https://newsroom.bne.com.au/new-year-delivers-new-sustainability-era/

Lufthansa Group is extending Green Fares across its global route network making it available on more than 850,000 flights per year. Selecting an Economy Green, Premium Eco Green, Business Green or First Green fare Lufthansa can help reduce individual flight-related carbon emissions via sustainable aviation fuels which contribute to climate protection projects. Since it’s introduction in 2023 over two million passengers have opted for a Green Fare offsetting nearly 190,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide.

Further information: https://newsroom.lufthansagroup.com/en/now-available-worldwide-more-sustainable-flying-with-green-fares/

Hook Island in the Whitsunday Islands has unveiled plans for a new world-class eco-lodge with 39 unique biophilic cabins, wellness spaces, forest eco pools, and a range of adventure activities. Epochal Hotels acquired the leasehold in 2022 and were awarded a grant from the Queensland Governments Growing Future Tourism Fund after the island was impacted by cyclones. Development will take a phased approach to prevent erosion, manage waste and reduce noise pollution. When fully operational in 2027 it will have water-efficient systems, recycled wastewater irrigation and eco-friendly appliances to sustain resources.

Further information: https://epochalhotels.com.au/hook-island/

The new Monarto Safari Resort in South Australia is joining the Journey Beyond portfolio of luxury accommodation and lodges in Australia. Located near Adelaide, the luxury eco-resort will feature 78 hotel guest rooms and 20 luxury tents in the safari lodge, a world-class spa, two swimming pools as well as conference, function and restaurant spaces. It will have access to the new Wild Africa precinct of Monarto Safari Park where guests can view native and iconic endangered species. A portion of the room rate for every stay at the hotel will be also donated to Monarto Safari Park’s conservation programs. It will open in late May 2025.

Further information: https://www.premier.sa.gov.au/media-releases/news-items/sa-tourism-to-go-wild-as-monarto-safari-resort-about-to-open-its-doors-to-the-public

Hilton has announced a new partnership with U.S.-based AutoCamp to offer guests an experience that blends outdoor adventure with the hospitality of a boutique hotel in properties adjacent to popular national parks. This is the first time a major hospitality brand and outdoor company have come together to offer custom-designed Airstreams, luxury tents and other unique accommodations in 10 desirable natural locations across six states.

Further information: https://autocamp.com/

The New South Wales Government is turning abandoned train tunnels 20 metres below the Sydney CBD into a tourist attraction after a million-dollar makeover. Built in the 1920s, visitors will soon be able to explore hidden parts of the St James Tunnels following restoration and revitalisation works to create a unique underground experience. Once used as a World War II air raid shelter, the experience will combine a historical walking tour with an immersive multimedia and soundscape attraction for visitors aged 13 and above.

Further information: https://www.nsw.gov.au/ministerial-releases/light-at-end-of-sydneys-secret-train-tunnels

Tourism Research Australia has released a report that outlines the tourism investment pipeline in key tourism segments including aviation, accommodation, arts, recreation, and business services. The Tourism Investment Monitor shows the 2023-24 pipeline consisted of 346 projects with a value of $63.4 billion. It also provides details on investment by state and territory including project stages across capital cities and regional Australia.

Further information: https://www.tra.gov.au/en/economic-analysis/tourism-investment-monitor

NatureFix has launched a series of Nature Wellness Trails, developed in collaboration with Parks Victoria, to help people relax, recharge, and reconnect with landscapes while inspiring care and stewardship for the natural world. It is a science-backed approach informed by partnerships with six universities and includes ongoing clinical trials that has shown guided activities can significantly enhance mental health and wellbeing.

Further information: https://www.naturefix.life/articles/rejuvenate-your-mind-and-body-with-park-victorias-nature-wellness-trails-1

Image: © Parks Victoria

The World Travel and Tourism Council and Trip.com Group and have unveiled a new report exploring the technologies shaping the future including Artificial Intelligence, digital payments, immersive experiences, and mobility innovations. The Technology Game Changers: Future Trends in Travel and Tourism report is a resource for tourism stakeholders seeking to navigate the complexities of a rapidly transforming digital landscape. It includes case studies and examples of organisations leveraging these technologies to achieve tangible improvements in operational efficiency and a better traveller experience.

Further information: https://wttc.org/news-article/wttc-trip-com-group-unveil-the-tech-revolution-reshaping-travel-and-tourism

Tourism New Zealand, in collaboration with eleven mana whenua groups, Warner Bros, and Mojang Studios (the developers of Minecraft), has launched New Zealand as the first fully playable destination in the Minecraft world. As one of the best-selling video games, this innovative approach offers millions of Minecraft fans from key international markets the unique opportunity to virtually explore a range of iconic New Zealand locations. The campaign will see PR and influencer activity, trade partnerships and joint ventures, and paid media.

Further information: https://www.tourismnewzealand.com/news-and-activity/tourism-new-zealand-launches-world-first-destination-new-zealand-minecraft-world-to-attract-visitors/

Footage of tourism experiences around Australia, captured as part of the National Experience Content Initiative, has been turned into a TV series which will be broadcast into key markets around the world to promote Australia as a travel destination. Production company, The Precinct has created Experience Australia using footage provided by over 1,500 Australian tourism operators from 57 regions around the country. Narrated by actor Rachel Griffiths, the series will initially air on the Outdoor Channel, which is available in 58 countries in more than 96 million households across Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

Further information: https://www.tourism.australia.com/en/news-and-events/news/new-broadcast-series-to-show-international-travellers-how-to-experience-australia.html

A new compendium of good practices and case studies has been jointly commissioned by UN Tourism, Government of San Marino and the European Accessibility Resource Centre. The Advancing Accessible Tourism for Destinations, Companies, and People report provides examples of improving accessibility by policymakers and private sector in culture and nature-based tourism, festivals and pilgrimage routes, urban and rural experiences, sports and mega events, shopping tourism and transportation.

Further information: https://www.unwto.org/news/destinations-and-companies-place-accessibility-at-the-forefront-of-tourism-planning-and-product-development

Central Queensland University has launched the world’s first micro-credential course designed to facilitate safe and inclusive experiences for people of all abilities when accessing beach environments. The Universal Beach Accessibility Hub (U‐BEACH) covers essential topics such as communication, safety considerations, and the safe use of beach pathways, sand-adapted walking aids and wheelchairs. The course is aimed at surf lifesavers, disability support workers and carers, health professionals, community groups, councils, and tourism operators seeking to provide inclusive experiences for visitors with disability.

Further information: https://www.cqu.edu.au/news/1200449/world-first-safe-beach-accessibility-course

Tourism Australia has launched the first destination guide that specifically applies an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander lens to cultural and tourism experiences. The Australian Indigenous Place Based Guide provides information about key Australian destinations that showcase Indigenous history, storytelling and experiences.

Further information: https://www.tourism.australia.com/en/about/industry-sectors/aboriginal-torres-strait-islander-tourism.html

New research commissioned by New Zealand Māori Tourism and prepared by Business and Economic Research Limited presents a comprehensive snapshot of Māori tourism including the overall economic contribution and unique aspects that define the tourism experience. The Value of Māori Tourism report shows Māori Tourism contributes more than $1 billion a year to the New Zealand economy which is largely from Māori collectives and businesses offering tourism services and experiences such as adventure activities, cultural exhibitions, transport or cafes.

Further information: https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/m%C4%81ori-tourism-driving-economic-growth

The European Commission has launched the 2026 edition of the European Capital of Smart Tourism and the European Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism Competitions. The Smart Tourism initiative recognises cities implementing new digital tools and practices such as equal opportunity and access to visitors, sustainable development and support to creative industries and local talent. Tourism destinations throughout Europe are encouraged to submit their innovative approaches by 30 May 2025.

Further information; https://smart-tourism-capital.ec.europa.eu/news/european-commission-announces-new-competitions-2026-european-capital-and-green-pioneer-smart-tourism-2025-03-05_en

easyJet holidays has released its first Impact Report 2024, outlining the company’s commitment to Environmental, Social and Governance by making sustainable holidays mainstream through its Holiday Better strategy. The report aims to make travel affordable and accessible to everyone by embedding sustainability into business decision and behaviours. To achieve this, easyJet holidays is collaborating with organisations and individuals that help to move these ambitions forward, combining industry expertise and influence with innovative thinking and problem-solving skills.

Further information: https://www.easyjet.com/en/holidays/media-centre/press-releases/easyjet-holidays-releases-first-impact-report

Visit Finland have released a toolkit which aimed to increase understanding of the business opportunities of transformational experiences in the travel industry. The Transformational Tourism Toolkit project funded by Business Finland and implemented in collaboration with research partners involved 20 tourism companies from all over Finland. It examined transformation tourism from a variety of perspectives, such as customer experiences, service providers’ views, customer potential, digital marketing and service design.

Further information: https://www.visitfinland.fi/ajankohtaista/uutiset/2025/muutosmatkailu-avaa-uusia-mahdollisuuksia-matkailualalle

American Express Global Business Travel has launched an integrated emissions-based carbon pricing solution. This enables customers to pick a carbon calculation methodology to apply a carbon fee to their air travel. These fees can be visible to business travellers as they shop and can appear on their invoice, helping companies inform employees about their carbon impact and corporate sustainability initiatives. A price on carbon can create a self-sustaining fund for decarbonisation projects such as sustainable aviation fuel, electric vehicles, and research and development.

Further information: https://www.amexglobalbusinesstravel.com/press-releases/american-express-global-business-travel-launches-emissions-based-carbon-pricing-solution/

Bullo River Station in the East Kimberley has released its first Sustainability Report setting a benchmark for responsible land management by highlighting its approach to conservation and pastoral operations in Australia’s Outback. The 400,000-acre (162,000 hectare) luxury tourism property, in partnership with the Australian Wildlife Conservancy, is balancing cattle grazing with ecological preservation through biodiversity monitoring, controlled grazing, and land restoration. Key achievements include increased solar power use, reducing waste, and a focus on local and sustainable food sourcing.

Further information: https://www.bulloriver.com.au/sustainability

The South Australian Tourism Commission has developed a new framework to support farmers and primary producers in unlocking their agritourism potential. The South Australian Agritourism Framework breaks down the journey towards setting up an agritourism venture into six main steps. It is a toolkit providing practical advice, resources, checklists and key contacts to help along the way.

Further information: https://www.tourism.sa.gov.au/support/industry-resources-and-tools/sector-development/agritourism

The New Zealand Government have announced a digital nomad scheme for people visiting from a visa waiver country like the United States, Japan, South Korea, Argentina, Israel, and the European Union as part of their visa. People visiting New Zealand on a Visitor Visa or New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority will be allowed to work remotely for their overseas employer or client for up to 90 days. Immigration New Zealand is advertising the scheme to Southeast Asia and North America.

Further information: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/preparing-a-visa-application/working-in-nz/working-remotely-in-new-zealand-on-a-visitor-visa

WeTravel and Intrepid Travel have collaborated on a free course to help multi-day tour providers develop products that have a positive impact on local communities. The WeTravel Academy: Rethinking Tour Development course is designed to equip travel professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to develop tourism products that are impactful, scalable, and sustainable.

Further information: https://www.adventuretravelnews.com/wetravel-and-intrepid-travel-launch-online-course-rethinking-tour-development

Australia’s first LGBTQIA+ inclusive tourism accreditation has been launched allowing travel businesses to stand out with verified inclusivity and inclusive guest experiences without pinkwashing. Welcome With Pride verifies tourism products’ genuine, proven commitment to inclusivity and travel businesses can complete the 30-minuteinclusivity training for teams to earn accreditation through the program. The tourism-specific e-learning course is built on research with practical applications for immediate inclusivity improvements.

Further information: https://welcomewithpride.com/

The Responsible Tourism Awards have launched a dedicated award for Europe for the first time in the 20 years. Sponsored by easyJet holidays, the awards highlight the travel and tourism sector’s commitment to minimising negative impacts and maximising positive contributions to responsible tourism which aim to inform and inspire others. The awards are run by non-profit the International Centre for Responsible Tourism with applications closing 23 May 2025.

Further information: https://icrt.global/icrt-europe-awards-2025/

The World Travel and Tourism Council has unveiled a report exploring the critical gap between travellers’ desire for sustainable options and their actual behaviour. The Bridging the Say-Do Gap: How to Create an Effective Sustainability Strategy by Knowing Your Customers report aims to help the industry bridge this divide by partnering with businesses and governments on sustainability initiatives. The survey of more than 10,000 adults in the United Kingdom categorised travellers into six consumer segments with unique behaviours, priorities, and barriers to selecting sustainable choices.

Further information: https://wttc.org/news-article/consumers-in-favour-of-sustainable-travel-but-cost-is-king-reveals-wttc-report

The Adventure Travel Trade Association, CycleSummit, and the European Cyclists’ Federation-EuroVelo have launched the first independent online survey of cycling tour operators to better understand the dynamics of this growing sector of the industry. The findings were compiled into a new report the State of the Cycling Tour Operators Industry 2024: In Europe and Beyond which aims to assist destinations and tour operators respond to the increasing popularity of all types of cycling tourism around the world.

Further information: https://learn.adventuretravel.biz/research/state-of-the-cycling-tour-operators-industry-in-europe-and-beyond-2024

Accor has released new research highlighting the opportunities and challenges posed by ongoing travel growth for the industry. The European Travel 2025: Balancing growth and impact report shows that Europeans plan to travel more and spend more on travel despite subdued economic growth forecasts across the continent as they prioritise it above other areas of discretionary spend. Accor commissioned One Poll to survey 8,000 adults who plan to travel domestically or abroad in 2025 from across seven European countries including United Kingdom, Germany, Netherlands, France, Italy, Spain, and Poland.

Further information: https://press.accor.com/travel-trends-2024-in-review-amp-2025-forecast-by-all-accors-booking-platform/?lang=eng

A new consumer preferences study by Macquarie University in the Journal of Sustainable Tourism has found that while many air passengers are open to paying extra for flights with reduced emissions, there was also a huge variation in readiness to buy a more expensive air ticket to help reduce global warming. Data from the Air Travellers Attitudes Towards Carbon Emissions report was collected by presenting over 400 participants several hypothetical flight options for the same trip but at different prices, and different levels of carbon emissions like information on the Google Flights website.

Further information: https://researchers.mq.edu.au/en/publications/air-travellers-attitudes-towards-carbon-emissions-evidence-from-t

FINN Partners has unveiled a new report which offers insights from key industry experts on the rising demand for wellness-focused travel experiences. The Future of Wellness Tourism report identifies the trends defining wellness tourism in 2025 and beyond from new generational cohorts changing how products will be made and marketed, to technology changing guest experiences, and emerging hot spots where wellness is taking centre stage in strategies.

Further information: https://www.finnpartners.com/news-insights/the-future-of-wellness-tourism-2025/

The Perth Airport Western Australian Tourism Conference will be held in Fremantle from 26-28 May 2025. The conference provides an opportunity to hear from industry-leading speakers on critical industry issues and innovative ideas.

Further information: https://tourismcouncilwa.com.au/events-training/2025-perth-airport-wa-tourism-conference-2025

The South Australian Tourism Conference will be held in at the Morphettville Racecourse Wolf Blass Events Centre in Adelaide from 12-13 June 2025. The event incorporates a range of expert keynote speakers, breakout sessions, panel discussion, workshops and masterclasses, networking, and trade exhibitors.

Further information: https://ticsa.com.au/events/sa-tourism-conference/

The Global Sustainable Tourism Conference will be held in Fiji from 5-8 August 2025. The event serves as a platform for hands-on training, discussions, and networking opportunities aimed at advancing sustainability practices in tourism worldwide.

Further information: https://www.gstcouncil.org/gstc2025fiji/

The 27th Australian Cruise Association Conference will be hosted in Fremantle, Western Australia from 3-5 September 2024. The conference provides an opportunity to network with industry colleagues and discuss ideas for success in the next phase of cruise.

Further information: https://www.australiancruiseassociation.com/conference/2025-annual-conference-fremantle