What's Happening?
The Destination Canada Australian Strategic Advisory Group (SAG) recently visited Canada to deepen their understanding of the region and explore sustainable and indigenous tourism experiences. The visit,
organized by Destination Ontario, included immersive experiences and collaborative sessions with Canadian and Australian industry leaders. A key highlight was a strategy session in Niagara Falls, led by Destination Canada, which focused on regenerative tourism approaches. The itinerary showcased innovative tourism products and sustainability-led initiatives aimed at enriching communities and protecting cultural heritage. The visit also included a range of regenerative and locally owned tourism offerings, such as a sustainability tour at Elmhirst’s Resort and indigenous-led programming at Mādahòkì Farm.
Why It's Important?
This collaboration between Australian and Canadian tourism leaders is significant as it promotes a more sustainable and responsible approach to tourism. By focusing on regenerative tourism, the initiative aims to create positive impacts on local communities and the environment. The partnership also strengthens cross-market collaboration, allowing both countries to share best practices and align their strategies for sustainable tourism development. This approach not only enhances the tourism experience for visitors but also supports the preservation of cultural heritage and environmental stewardship. The initiative reflects a growing trend in the tourism industry towards more thoughtful and equitable travel experiences.
What's Next?
The Strategic Advisory Group plans to continue building momentum in reshaping how Australia engages with Canada as a travel destination. With working groups in place and a clear action plan underway, the group aims to promote a version of tourism that is more thoughtful, equitable, and sustainable. The collaboration is expected to inspire similar initiatives in other regions, encouraging a global shift towards regenerative tourism practices. The ongoing partnership between Australian and Canadian tourism leaders will likely lead to further innovations in sustainable tourism, benefiting both countries and the global tourism industry.