Industry Newsletter

SUMMIT PROGRAM RELEASED SUMMIT PROGRAM RELEASED

April 2025

Outdoor News

This monthly newsletter is shared with the broader outdoor industry, members and non-members of Outdoor NSW & ACT in the Outdoor Industry. To receive more regular and informative news, become a member today.

From the CEO's Desk

Last week, communities paused to acknowledge ANZAC Day and honour all those who have served our country — past and present. Their spirit of dedication, resilience, and service continues to inspire our communities, including many who walk beside us in the outdoor industry today. We thank them for their sacrifice and for the leadership many of them continue to show in all corners of our work, from education and adventure to tourism and environmental stewardship.

This month’s newsletter brings important updates from across the sector. The Outdoor Council of Australia (OCA) has commenced consultation on the Australian Adventure Activity Standard (AAAS) and Good Practice Guides (GPGs) review, with key dates now available for industry engagement. The program for the 2025 Outdoor Industry Summit has been released, promising a dynamic lineup of sessions and speakers. NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has opened public consultation on proposed camping fee changes. The Pinnacle Leadership Program moves into its final stages, continuing to empower future female leaders in our industry, and advocacy efforts regarding the removal of Outdoor Leadership modules from TAFE NSW remain strong. In addition, the Australian Camps Association has released their National Camps Census, which will provide valuable insights for the sector.

Thank you for staying connected and for all you do to strengthen the outdoors community in NSW and ACT.

Lori Modde

More News

Click below for key topics

Cultural Awareness Program

Outdoors NSW & ACT has launched a new online training program to help the outdoor industry embrace greater inclusion and diversity at a time when our communities are more culturally diverse than ever — and continuing to grow. The program features five modules focused on Indian, Muslim, Chinese, LGBTIQ+, and Aboriginal cultures, providing essential knowledge to better understand and respect cultural differences in outdoor settings. Priced at just $65, it offers accessible and practical learning. Participants receive a certificate upon successful completion, ensuring they are better equipped to create welcoming, inclusive outdoor experiences for all.

http://outdoors.kartra.com/page/culturalawareness

Outdoor Learning Mini Conference Speaker Applications

Starting in 2024, the Outdoor Learning Mini-Conference is for teachers and facilitators that want to get kids outdoors more often to learn skills that can not be taught in the classroom. If you want to share your skills with other teachers, then submit your EOI to present at the 2025 OLMC to be held in September at Birrigai Outdoor School. Click here to submit your EOI https://outdoors.kartra.com/survey/OLMC25EOI

OCA AAAS Review Commences

The OCA have released the next steps in the AAAS Review. Read more in the article below. To ensure you get all the information, register for notifications and join the online engagement portal.

2025 Outdoor Industry Summit Program Released

Check out the program and what to expect from the Outdoor Industry Summit in July. Partnering with NATCORR to bring you a day of risk and resilience conversations followed by 2 days of the essential topics for the sustainability of our industry.

To check out the program and book your tickets are limited click here

Members.... Don't forget to use your discount code to save up to $150.

More info below.

NSW NPWS release new camp fees

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service is seeking community feedback on proposed changes to camping in NSW national parks and reserves.

Please read the consultation paper outlining the details of the proposal and share your feedback by 11.59pm on Sunday 25 May 2025. If providing feedback, please send a copy to ONSWACT so we understand your perspectives and look to support you in your feedback. Click here to read more.

Or attend the Connect & Share Session on 2 May to hear more about the changes.

Pinnacle Leadership Program 2024 Cohort Concluding soon

25 outdoor women leaders will be concluding their journey with the Pinnacle Leadership Program in just over 2 months with the graduation being held at Outdoor Industry Summit. This means that EOIs for the next cohort will be open in late July, so reach out to the women in your organisation that want to move to the next level in their career to get them ready to submit their application. More information will be available in July.

TAFE NSW Decision and Advocacy Occuring

In April, ONSWACT was provided with the written notice from TAFE NSW to permanently remove the roping courses from their scope. This not only limits the skills being provided to entrants to the industry, but undermines the reliance on these skills in our industry. Especially noting that one of TAFE's locations is the Blue Mountains (BM) where the adventure tourism industry in this area relies on rock climbing, abseiling and canyoning, which ALL require roping skills. A meeting with the BM industry last week confirmed the detrimental effect this decision will have now and in the long term on a vital economy. ONSWACT is working with the local members and federal candidates to understand this impact.

Australian Camps Association Census

Following the success of the Outdoors Queensland and Outdoors NSW ACT Census', the ACA has released their inaugural Census and Economic Impact Assessment for, and on behalf of, the Camps Industry across Australia. Growing the much-needed data for advocacy, assessment and analysis of trends affecting our industry. If you have a facility that is a hard-top camp then make sure you complete the Census here. Complete by the 6th June 2025.

Membership Options for

Non-Members:

You can now pay by the month for your membership to help with cash flow and if you are not a member yet, you can commence a 7-day trial period and access the membership portal before paying to join. This enables you to see if you can benefit from your Outdoors NSW & ACT Membership.

TICKETS ON SALE

Outdoor Industry Summit

Featuring the NatCORR Outdoor Risk & Resilience Symposium

$295 per day *

REGISTER HERE

* Members rate is $245 per day

Information from April...

"Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death." — Albert Einstein "Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death." — Albert Einstein

🌿 VALE COLIN ABBOTT

Colin Abbott had 50 years of experience in outdoor education in Australia and New Zealand. He has held many diverse roles professionally and in volunteer positions, representing the epitome of service to the profession. Colin has also embarked on many personal adventures that have inspired others.

Colin’s service to the profession in volunteer roles has mirrored his long professional career. He was a board member of the Bushwalking and Mountain craft Leadership Board. He contributed to the Bushwalking and Mountain Touring Advisory Board Handbook, which became the seminal handbook for many outdoor educators. He was President of the Monash Bushwalking Club, and in New Zealand, he held numerous advisory board roles and convened the NZ National Outdoor Education Conference in the 1970's. In Australia, Colin was pivotal in the growth of the Victorian Outdoor Education Association. He spent many years on the committee and, as President, he convened the 1991 National Outdoor Education Conference. Working tirelessly, Colin helped to manage membership services, co-convening state conferences in 2012, 2013 and 2014, and aiding in the transition to the establishment of Outdoors Victoria. Colin also wrote numerous columns for the VOEA journal Journeys, sharing his knowledge and drawing on elders’ wisdom to aid future generations of outdoor educators. He has presented at state and national conferences, run professional development events, and sought to contribute consistently to the development of outdoor education.
His tireless work and passion for the outdoor profession as a volunteer have underpinned numerous organisations. Colin has been an outstanding contributor to the profession of outdoor education in Victoria, Australia, and New Zealand.

His funeral service will be held at 11 am on Friday, May 2^nd, at Heidelberg Golf Club, Victoria.

Im sure we join the larger Outdoor Industry in recognising his contribution and the legacy that we benefit from today. Thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 CULTURAL AWARENESS TRAINING PROGRAM

Released this month, Outdoors NSW & ACT has launched a new online training program designed to support a more inclusive and diverse outdoor industry.

The program features five modules covering Indian, Muslim, Chinese, LGBTIQ+, and Aboriginal cultures. Upon successful completion, participants receive a certificate of completion. Priced affordably at just $65, the program provides essential insights into cultural differences that should be considered when planning and delivering outdoor activities.

To register or know more, go to https://outdoors.kartra.com/page/culturalawareness

🖐 OUTDOOR INDUSTRY SUMMIT PROGRAM

From the program, to the supporters and exhibitors... you can now get all the information on this important event from the website: www.outdoorsnswact.org/2025Summit

ONSWACT Members get free skin checks courtesy of Medibank Private, and also receive $150 off the price of the Summit by using your code in your membership portal.

🏅 MEMBER AWARDS PRESENTATION

Each year we recognise members that engage in professional development through the resources that ONSWACT provides. The ONSWACT PD points accumulate as you navigate member portal articles, newsletters, programs and events. We understand that it is important to stay informed and up to date so we reward the members that do so for their own professional standing. These awards will be presented at the Outdoor Industry Summit on 10th July.

🧗‍♂️ DESTINATION NSW EXPERIENCE WORKSHOPS

These FREE workshops will assist businesses in fine tuning their experience to be relevant to today's visitors. They are available around the state and registrations are open via the Destination NSW website as we get closer to the dates;

Maitland, 13 May 2025
Lismore, 15 May 2025
Shellharbour, 21 May 2025
Coonamble, 3 June 2025
Orange, 5 June 2025
Virtual workshop - Zoom, 26 June 2025

👨‍🏫 OUTDOOR LEADERSHIP QUALIFICATIONS ADVOCACY

As indicated above, ONSWACT was provided with the written notice from TAFE NSW in April, to permanently remove the roping courses from their scope. We are also unsure of the allocation of Smart & Skilled funding being allocated to support enrolments in July 2025. The two issues combined have provided an untenable situation for the training of our future guides.

ONSWACT has prepared a briefing paper that has been distributed to all stakeholders in the skills sector and ONSWACT is working with the local members and federal candidates to understand this impact on the industry and the adventure tourism areas of our state.

To support the advocacy in this area please reach out to ONSWACT to receive the briefing paper and the main contacts that you can express your feelings to and support this important advocacy work.

🗓 APPLY TO PRESENT AT THE OUTDOOR LEARNING MINI CONFERENCE

This year's Outdoor Learning Mini Conference follows the successful Port Macquarie event in 2024. Brought to you by the ONSWACT Outdoor Learning Committee, this event is hands-on and practical. Only those willing to share practice are encouraged to apply.

The event will be held 26-28 September in Canberra, at Birrigai Outdoor School.

Apply to present by completing this form.

🚵‍♂️ MTB SYMPOSIUM LEGACY RELEASED AT SUMMIT

In October 2024, ONSWACT held the MTB Symposium in the beautiful town of Merimbula NSW. This event brought together 134 stakeholders from across the MTB sector to talk about the challenges and opportunities that could path the way of the future of MTB in NSW & the ACT. The discussions were recorded and culminated in the MTB Manifesto. This document will be released to the industry at the Outdoor Industry Summit in July.

📊 WHY JOIN IN ONSWACT IN 2025

Join now and get your membership price back in discounts to attend the Outdoor Industry Summit. Individuals can join for $125, and get $150 back on your ticket to the Summit! Now that's a great deal! For Small businesses ($500 membership) you can register 5 people for the Summit saving $750.

Supporting your peak body in advocacy for your industry
Gain access to information and resources
Meeting with ONSWACT to discuss your strategy / your needs
Businesses and events are promoted
Businesses are considered for optional opportunities
Free job listings on Outdoors Job Board
Promotion of the industry & careers
Membership discounts on events / conferences
Access to Connect & Share Forums
Access to JOEE Articles & New Research

Join today at https://www.outdoorsnswact.org/membershiplevels

👩‍💼 LOOKING FOR WORK, A NEW ADDITION TO THE MEMBERS PORTAL

From time to time, Outdoors NSW & ACT is approached by people wanting to enter the industry or find work in the Outdoors. A new option has been added to our website to capture those people's details, skills and experience and share with our members - https://outdoors.kartra.com/page/workwanted

You can find these people's contacts under Member Resources/Looking for work on the ONSWACT Member Portal.

Reminders

In Case You Missed It...

From our previous newsletters, reminding you about what is happening

Professional Development Opportunities

See what's on offer for our industry brought to you by ONSWACT, Abseiling, canoeing, outdoor education for non-outdoor educators and lots more...

Workplace Laws have changed

From 26 February 2025, eligible casuals can provide written notice to their employer to change to full-time or part-time employment under the new employee choice pathway. An employer can only refuse the notice for certain reasons. We have new templates available to help you meet the new rules.

More information can be found here

Connect & Share's discuss big issues

The April Connect & Share episodes are in the members portal and covered workplace challenges and industry news. If you haven't yet registered for the 2025 events, register to get the links via the members portal or non-members can subscribe to the Connect & Shares 2025 via this link.

https://outdoors.kartra.com/page/2025industryevents

Skin Cancer Action for Outdoor Workers

The CEOs of Office of Sport, Cancer Institute of NSW, Sports Medicine Australia, Cancer Council NSW, Melanoma Institute & ONSWACT have combined forces in a joint letter to bring the Sport & Recreation together on the AIS Sun Safe position. Whilst we may not be able to look at all levels of protection, like elimination of the outdoors, it is important to review your administration, operational and PPE measures to protect your staff and attendees from skin cancer.

View the full letter to Outdoor Operators here.

Job Classifications have changed

ANZSCO, Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations, was a joint system used by both Australia and New Zealand to categorise occupations, but it has been replaced by OSCA (Occupation Standard Classification for Australia) as Australia now has its own tailored occupation classification system to better reflect its unique labor market needs, while maintaining comparability with New Zealand's classification. A majority of our workforce will now fit under one area - 4624 Sports Coaches and Outdoor Adventure Guides thanks to the advocacy that took place in 2023-2024.

Outdoor worker risks- JEV

Japanese encephalitis is a rare but serious illness caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV). It is spread to humans by infected mosquitoes.

In NSW, a free Japanese encephalitis virus vaccination is available for people aged 2 months or older who regularly spend time outdoors placing them at risk of mosquito bites.

NSW Tourism Awards are now open

Each year the NSW Tourism Association holds the NSW Tourism Awards and applications opened on 28 April 2025. To read all about the awards and how you can nominate your business go to www.nswtourismassociation.com.au

Partnership Prospectus 2025

If you are interested in partnering with Outdoors NSW & ACT in 2025, get in touch as the 2025 Prospectus is now available and limited opportunities are available to get involved in some key strategic activities. Leverage our successes by coming on board and working together for a more resilient, sustainable and thriving industry.

Email contact@outdoorsnswact.com.au - 2025 Prospectus

Training and Professional Development

Outdoors NSW & ACT (ONSWACT) is thrilled to announce a series of Professional Development Sessions for 2025, designed in partnership with leading operators in the field. These sessions are an incredible opportunity for both staff and individuals to gain or enhance skills in abseiling, climbing, first aid, canoeing, and outdoor education.

Whether you're looking to start a career in outdoor activities or aiming to elevate your current skills, these sessions cover a wide range of essentials taught by industry experts. Our comprehensive training programs are tailored to empower participants with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to excel in the great outdoors.

Sessions are scheduled throughout the year, providing flexible opportunities to fit your busy schedule. Don’t miss out on the chance to advance your abilities and join a community passionate about outdoor pursuits.

Register now and take the first step towards mastering your outdoor skills with ONSWACT!

More Information

Resources for Members

Everything you need to know about the psychosocial hazards, new IR laws, legislation that impacts our industry and more are available on the member's portal. Members can login into the membership portal to access over 350 different resources available for your use. We add to this portal every week with content.

You can also search for all the topics presented at the Connect & Share forums last year. Members can access it via this link:

https://outdoors.kartra.com/portal/login/index.

Or non-members can join us here and you will get immediate access to the portal:

https://www.outdoorsnswact.org/membershiplevels

Want to stay up to date?

Don't wait for the end of month newsletter, get the opportunities as they are live

Non Members can now join Connect & Share Forums

What's new in the

Outdoors NSW & ACT Membership Portal

Click here to login and see what's been added for your use

Incident reports and articles, case studies and research, sub-committee activities and much more...

Not an ONSWACT Member yet?

Join for as little as $25 per year

Subscribe here