<< back

ADVENTURE ACTIVITY STANDARDS

Australia’s first safety and environmental standards for adventure providers are currently in development and available from Victoria’s Outdoor Recreation Centre Inc. (ORC).

The Adventure Activity Standards (AAS), developed by the ORC in partnership with the Victorian Government and industry stakeholders, apply to both commercial and not-for-profit providers. Aimed at encouraging responsible and consistent practices across the adventure sector.

AAS outline minimum risk management and environmental responsibilities, covering key business practices, such as leader competency, emergency procedures, equipment, and commitment to environmentally sustainable practices.

The AAS project is an industry-led initiative, with input from a wide range of stakeholders to ensure the Standards have relevance and credibility. So the involvement of industry groups, commercial operators, key individuals and relevant land managers is essential.

Although compliance with the AAS has been a requirement of Parks Victoria’s Tour Operator Licensing System since July 1, 2003, these are not statutory guidelines and have been developed to be relevant for all organised groups conducting adventure activities.

AAS are also the recognised industry standard within the Australian Camps Association’s accreditation program in Victoria, and will be integrated into the ‘Better Business’ tourism accreditation program following its review. They also complement the National Outdoor Recreation Industry Training Package and the National Outdoor Leader Registration Scheme (NOLRS).

All of the AAS, support material and current news can be accessed online via the Adventure Activity Standards project section of the ORC website at; orc.org.au/aas.

<< back