The Australian Adventure Activity Standard (AAAS) and Good Practice Guides (GPG) have officially been released after being endorsed by Australian Ministers for Sport earlier this month.
The AAAS and GPG are the result of a four-year project to harmonise existing State/Territory adventure Activity Standards into the first national voluntary framework for good practice, risk and safety management for led outdoor adventure activities in Australia.
Until now, each jurisdiction has maintained its own set of guidelines for outdoor activities. This new national approach will make it easier for activity providers to operate in multiple jurisdictions, improve professional portability of activity leaders, and improve safety for participants.
The framework will be maintained and managed by the Outdoor Council of Australia (OCA).
Workshops will be provided to help providers understand and use the framework. The Queensland Outdoor Recreation Federation will deliver a webinar for NT organisations on Tuesday, 26 November 2019. Register your interest here: https://qorf.cmail20.com/t/t-l-buuiiyk-ahtdutril-i/ or visit https://qorf.org.au for more information.
The AAAS and GPG are available from the following website: http://australianaas.org.au
Quotes from Shane McCorkell, Director, Governance and Sector Management, Sport and Active Recreation, Department of Tourism, Sport and Culture:
“This framework will provide certainty for both outdoor adventure operators and people taking part in adventure activities not just in the NT, but Australia-wide.
“It will help operators review their practices and continue to offer safe and responsible activities to the community and visitors, which is a vital part in supporting our tourism sector and helping people get outdoors more.
“The reduction of red-tape imposed under a state-by-state approach is a great result for nature-based tourism, outdoor education, and outdoor recreation groups and businesses.”
Quote from Andrew Knight, Chair of the Australian AAS Committee:
“Thanks to the support of the State and Territory Sport and Recreation Ministers of Australia, the outdoors sector experts have formed the first-ever national Adventure Activity Standard and Good Practice Guides across 18 activities."
Quote from Andrew Mc Guckian, President of the OCA:
“Standards shouldn’t change just because you cross the border. This approach ensures everyone has clear guidance on how to achieve the highest safety standards and deliver the best possible experience for participants”.
Media contact Department of Tourism, Sport and Culture Media Manager 0476 844 832