In April 2024, Townsville was awarded ECO Destination certification at Nature Tourism Level by Ecotourism Australia. This incredible feat could not have been achieved without the long list of community-led programs and businesses that are taking big (and small) steps toward progressing Townsville into a world-leading sustainable destination (featured in the Top 100 worldwide).
Townsville is the third destination in Queensland and the ninth in Australia to become an ECO Destination, solidifying the region as a sustainability and ecotourism leader. Council was a recipient of the Queensland Government Department of Tourism and Sport’s Eco-Certified Tourism Destination Grant in 2022 to expand their destination sustainability certification.
This benefits everyone in our place (local, state and international)
Benefits residents and how they visit and perceive their own city
Provides new opportunities for residents and visitors
Local people like to fish, camp, exercise, relax and recreate in nature
They are surrounded by our excellent environments and nature
It is formal recognition of Townsville’s authenticity and journey in sustainability
What do we mean by authenticity?
We are actively restoring our environment and that can be seen
We are building business opportunities that support environmental outcomes
We are providing opportunities to reduce costs to business and industry
Lots of personal collaboration in our community
Lots of volunteers and groups working together to reduce impact on environment
People want to see and support our local wildlife
There are human health benefits
What is the Destination Certification?
Townsville region was awarded ECO Destination certification at Nature Tourism Level by Ecotourism Australia
Assesses 81 criteria centred on the four pillars of sustainability
The Certification is recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council
Townsville joins a network of more than 200 international destinations
Townsville is the third destination in QLD and the ninth in Australia to become an ECO Destination, solidifying the region as a leader in sustainable ecotourism
The City continues to grow environmentally along with modern industries, information technology and sustainability initiatives. Council is working to amplify the opportunities available for nature-based, regenerative tourism experiences that integrate global best practices.
Council held its first ecotourism workshops in 1998 and produced an ecotourism strategy in 2000. Innovative environmental projects continue to be embedded in the foundation of Townsville.
Council has supported management and conservation plans across decades.
In the last few years, Sustainable Destination has been incorporated into:
TCC Corporate Plan (20-24)
TCC Annual Operating Plan (22-23)
TSV Reef Guardian Plan (20-24)
TCC Environmental Policy
The region is committed to boosting the sustainability of its tourism product and eight local businesses are Certified through Ecotourism Australia’s globally recognised business programs. One of Townsville’s top attractions, Billabong Sanctuary, holds Advanced Ecotourism Certification and is part of Ecotourism Australia’s Hall of Fame for more than 20 years of continuous ECO Certification. Additionally, Council operates the Advanced Ecotourism Certified Eco Catchment Tours, providing educational and interactive tours to enhance the local community’s connection to the area’s diverse land and coastalscapes.
See a list of Townsville’s current eco-certified businesses via the green travel guide including:
