Sustainable Tourism & ECO Destination Opportunities
The Bass Coast and Milawul (Phillip Island) are renowned for spectacular coastal landscapes, internationally significant wildlife, rich cultural heritage and memorable visitor experiences.
As Bass Coast progresses its ECO Destination Certification journey with Ecotourism Australia, we are committed to building a sustainable visitor economy that protects these values while creating opportunities for local businesses and communities.
Meet the businesses leading the way on the Bass Coast
Across Bass Coast and Milawul (Phillip Island), tourism businesses are taking practical steps to reduce their environmental impact, support conservation and create more sustainable visitor experiences.
From wildlife attractions and eco-cruises to accommodation providers, these operators are helping shape the future of sustainable tourism in our region.
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Phillip Island Nature Parks is a unique conservation organisation that protects wildlife and habitats across Phillip Island (Milawul), while providing world-leading nature-based tourism experiences. Visitors can experience the world-famous Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Reserve and Churchill Island, with revenue from ticket sales reinvested into vital conservation, research, education, wildlife rescue and environmental programs.
The Nature Parks is recognised as a leader in ecotourism, having achieved more than 20 years of continuous Ecotourism Australia certification and entry into the Ecotourism Australia Hall of Fame. Through its conservation and research programs, sustainable tourism initiatives and commitment to supporting Bunurong self-determination and aspirations for Country, the Nature Parks is working towards its vision of an island haven where nature and people thrive together.
ECO Certified Advanced Tourism, Respecting our Culture Certified, Climate Action Certified.
Wildlife Coast Cruises
Wildlife Coast Cruises has been sharing the natural wonders of both the Phillip Island (Milawul) and Wilsons Promontory regions with visitors for more than three decades. Through eco-certified experiences, conservation initiatives and partnerships that support habitat restoration across Bass Coast, the business demonstrates how tourism can play a positive role in protecting our region's unique wildlife and coastal environments.
"Maintaining our ECO Certification, including regular audits, reflects our commitment to operating responsibly in the incredible coastal and marine environments we’re fortunate to share with our guests. It keeps sustainability at the centre of how we operate and encourages us to continually review and improve our practices. Protecting these places and their wildlife is essential to ensuring they can be enjoyed and appreciated for generations to come.” Georgia Bisset, Sales and Environmental Officer, Wildlife Coast Cruises
ECO Certified Advanced Tourism
RACV Inverloch Resort
RACV Inverloch Resort combines premium coastal accommodation with a commitment to sustainable tourism. Recognised by Ecotourism Australia through its Sustainable Tourism Certification, the resort is set on a 32-hectare coastal site between the wetlands of Anderson Inlet and the Bass Strait coastline, just minutes from Inverloch. The certification recognises RACV Inverloch Resort's ongoing commitment to responsible tourism and delivering positive environmental, social and economic outcomes for guests, the local community and the destination.
"Achieving Sustainable Tourism Certification has been an important milestone for RACV Inverloch Resort and reinforces our commitment to continually improving the way we operate.
Sustainability is increasingly important to our guests, and we encourage other businesses to consider certification as a practical framework for strengthening their sustainability credentials and supporting the long-term success of the destination.
Achieving Sustainable Tourism Certification across our entire leisure portfolio is a proud moment, but more than anything it's a reflection of the people behind it, our resort teams who show up every day with a genuine commitment to doing things better. Our goal has always been to make sustainability a real and meaningful part of how we operate.” Shelley Verdouw, Hotel Manager, RACV Inverloch Hotel
Sustainable Tourism Certified
Ready to become a Bass Coast Sustainable Tourism Leader?
Visitors are increasingly seeking businesses that care for the places they visit.
Join local tourism operators taking action through Ecotourism Australia's nationally recognised sustainability programs. Whether you're just getting started with the Strive for Sustainability Scorecard or ready to pursue certification, there's a pathway to suit your business.
Together, we can strengthen Bass Coast's reputation as a leading sustainable tourism destination.
EXPLORE YOUR PATHWAYS - Your Sustainability Pathway | Ecotourism Australia
REGISTER YOUR INTEREST - Ecotourism Australia program registration form
Why get involved?
- Help protect what makes Bass Coast special: Contribute to the long-term care of our landscapes, wildlife and cultural heritage.
- Meet changing visitor expectations: Travellers are increasingly seeking businesses with genuine sustainability credentials.
- Stand out from the crowd: Certification provides independent recognition of your sustainability efforts.
- Connect with a growing network: Join other businesses working towards a more sustainable visitor economy.
- Support Bass Coast's ECO Destination journey: Help strengthen the region's reputation as a sustainable destination of choice.
Start Your Sustainability Journey
Getting started is easier than you might think. Whether you're taking your first steps or already implementing sustainable practices, Ecotourism Australia offers a range of nationally recognised programs and support to help your business on its sustainability journey.
1. Talk to the experts
Not sure where to start? Ecotourism Australia can help you understand the different sustainability programs available and recommend the pathway that's right for your business. Contact the friendly team at Ecotourism Australia - Contact Us | Ecotourism Australia
2. Register your interest
Once you've identified the right pathway, register your interest and access the tools, resources and support available to guide you through the process. Access the Eco Tourism Australia application form here - Ecotourism Australia program registration form
3. Complete your certification journey
Complete your application through Ecotourism Australia's online portal and work through the certification requirements with support from their team.
Once certified, we'll celebrate your achievement and welcome you as part of a growing network of tourism businesses helping to shape the future of Bass Coast's visitor economy.
Stay Connected
Have you started your sustainability journey? We'd love to hear from you.
Whether you're exploring certification options, completing the Strive for Sustainability Scorecard, working towards certification, or already certified, our team would love to stay connected and support your journey.
We're continually developing resources, workshops and opportunities to help local businesses build their sustainability knowledge and capabilities. We also enjoy showcasing local sustainability stories, celebrating business achievements, and sharing examples of tourism operators helping shape a more sustainable future for Bass Coast.
Connect with the Visitor Economy & Events Team via