Outdoor Council of Australia Welcomes Release of Outdoor Industry Standards Curated Set

MEDIA RELEASE 9 April 2026

The Outdoor Council of Australia (OCA) has welcomed the release of the new Outdoor Industry Standards Curated Set, a practical new resource that will make it easier for outdoor businesses and organisations to access formal Australian and international standards relevant to their work.

The curated set has been developed to support the Outdoor Industry with easier access to standards that underpin quality, consistency and professionalism across a wide range of operations, infrastructure, equipment and systems.

For an industry that delivers significant benefits to Australia through outdoor education, outdoor recreation, adventure tourism and nature therapy, the release of the set is an important step in strengthening the foundations that support safe and high-quality outdoor experiences.

OCA Chair Lori Modde said the curated set would provide an important tool for operators, providers and supporting organisations across the country.

“The Outdoor Industry plays an essential role in the lives of Australians. It supports health and wellbeing, education, tourism, regional economies, community connection and meaningful, beneficial experiences in nature,” Ms Modde said.

“Having easier access to the relevant standards helps businesses and organisations build stronger systems, improve confidence in decision-making, and demonstrate professionalism when working with participants, clients, land managers, insurers and government.”

Ms Modde said it was important to understand that the curated set is distinct from the Australian Adventure Activity Standard (AAAS) and associated Good Practice Guides.

“The AAAS provides industry guidance for the planning and delivery of adventure activities, while this curated set provides access to formal standards. Both are important, but they serve different purposes. This release helps make those formal standards more accessible and affordable to the Outdoor Industry.”

Standards Australia highlighted the significance of the initiative in launching the set.

“Behind every safe trail, well-built campsite or quality piece of outdoor gear, there are standards doing quiet but essential work. The Outdoor Industries Set brings those standards together in one place, making it easier for businesses and professionals to access what they need and do what they do best. The outdoor sector enriches Australian life in ways that are easy to take for granted. We want to make sure the foundations are strong,” said Adam Stingemore, Chief Development Officer at Standards Australia.

OCA encourages outdoor activity providers and industry stakeholders to explore the curated set and consider how it can support their operations and long-term capability.

The release also reflects the growing maturity of the Outdoor Industry and the need for practical tools that support businesses of all sizes, particularly those operating in regional and nature-based settings.

The Outdoor Industry Standards Curated Set is available here:https://store.standards.org.au/curated-subscription/outdoor-industries

For OCA members and members of OCA member organisations, discounted access to the set is also available.