Ecotourism Australia is proud to announce that the Surf Coast Shire has officially earned ECO Destination Certification, formally recognising the region's adherence to global best practice sustainable tourism and environmental management standards.
Located south west of Melbourne, the Surf Coast marks the official start of the iconic Great Ocean Road. Comprising eleven distinct townships, the region is one of Victoria's fastest-growing municipalities and a premier destination for domestic and international travellers.
"We are delighted to welcome the Surf Coast region to our growing cohort of ECO Certified Destinations throughout Australia. This certification recognises the dedication of the Surf Coast Shire team, businesses and residents in making the Surf Coast a model for responsible tourism in Australia," said Elissa Keenan, CEO of Ecotourism Australia.
"With exceptional nature-based experiences offered by ECO Certified operators such as Torquay Surf Academy, Southern Exposure Eco Adventure Sports and Go Ride A Wave, and sustainable accommodation offerings from Desa Retreats, RACV Torquay Resort, Great Ocean Road Resort and Mantra Lorne, visitors can explore the Surf Coast knowing they are supporting a region that values its environment as much as its vibrant lifestyle."
This milestone establishes the Surf Coast Shire as the second destination in Victoria to attain ECO Destination Certification, following East Gippsland's certification in April 2023, and the 15th destination in Australia.
"We're absolutely rapt for the Surf Coast Shire to receive ECO Destination Certification, as it strengthens our status as a place where visitors can soak up nature-focused experiences," said Surf Coast Shire Mayor, Cr Libby Stapleton.
"Our world-class environment is a huge drawcard for the 2.6 million visitors to the Surf Coast each year – from internationals exploring the Great Ocean Road, to people from across Australia taking in our charming hinterland."
Surf Coast Shire Council thanked various partners – Barwon Water, Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority, Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism and Parks Victoria – for the comprehensive range of sustainability initiatives as part of its ECO Destination Certification.
The region carefully monitors visitor numbers and behaviour to manage impacts on natural and cultural sites, while strict guidelines and licensing protect wildlife and sensitive ecosystems. Water conservation measures, low-impact transport options and climate adaptation strategies ensure tourism infrastructure and practices remain resilient and environmentally responsible. At the same time, the Shire supports authentic cultural engagement, ensuring local communities benefit economically while preserving their traditions.
"One of our priorities is to foster slow and regenerative tourism that is respectful of the local environment, values local communities and maximises local yield and revenue. This certification will help us to achieve that," said Cr Stapleton.
"We also want tourism to deliver consistent economic and social benefits year-round. What better way to help achieve this than to welcome visitors who love the outdoors and care about the environment."
ECO Destination Certification assesses a region on more than 90 criteria across eight sections including Destination Management, Environment and Climate, Culture and Tradition, and Social Wellbeing. By achieving ECO Destination Certification, the Surf Coast Shire joins a growing network of certified destinations across Australia. Through Ecotourism Australia's partnership with Green Destinations, Surf Coast Shire is also now part of a distinguished group of over 200 certified destinations globally.
