Stay Informed: Monthly Online Updates on the AAAS Review
- Lori Modde
- Oct 15
- 2 min read
Join the Conversation
The outdoor adventure industry in Australia is entering a transformative phase. The Australian Adventure Activity Standards (AAAS) and accompanying Good Practice Guides (GPGs) are under active review, with a refreshed methodology and renewed commitment to inclusive, evidence-based consultation. This is a rare opportunity for industry practitioners, land managers, insurers, regulators, educational providers, Indigenous organisations, and participants to shape the future of safe, sustainable adventure practice.
To keep everyone connected to progress and meaningfully involved, the Outdoor Council of Australia (OCA) appointed lead for the project, Dr David Marsden, is hosting monthly online updates. Below we explain what they are, why they matter, and how you can take part.
Why Monthly Updates?
Transparency & accountability
The review is being conducted under a rigorous mixed-methods empirical approach, backed by extensive stakeholder engagement. Regular updates ensure the industry can see how the process is unfolding, what findings are emerging, and where your feedback is being incorporated.
Timely feedback loops
As the review progresses in phases, it is critical to provide feedback early rather than retroactively. Monthly updates allow participants to respond to interim findings, raise concerns, propose refinements, and stay aligned with the review’s trajectory.
Inclusive engagement
The review methodology seeks broad participation—across sectors, regions, and communities—to surface cross-cutting themes such as inclusion, land access, equity, diversity, Indigenous heritage, and safety. Monthly updates provide entry points for new stakeholders to jump in.
Building a shared narrative
These updates are not just technical summaries—they are part of building a collective ownership of the final standards, fostering shared understanding and commitment across the sector.
When & How to Join
To participate:
Sign up for updates via the form on the AAAS Review page to receive alerts and links to briefings/webinars.
Join the online engagement platform (OREAS / consultation hub) to submit feedback, comment on drafts, and engage in dialogue.
View the Dates and details to join via the events page on OCA’s website.
Contact the review team if needed — the project email address is engagement@outdoorcouncilaustralia.com.
Why the Industry Should Be Involved
Effect on operations: The AAAS and GPGs provide benchmarks that affect risk management, insurance, regulation, funding eligibility, and reputational integrity.
Your voice matters: This is your industry, your expertise. The standard will only be as relevant and practical as they are informed by those on the ground.
Forging consensus: When standards are perceived as fair, consultative, and transparent, they gain legitimacy and long-term adoption.
Capacity building and alignment: Regular updates help smaller providers and newer entrants keep pace with evolving expectations and best practices.
The AAAS Review is one of the most consequential processes our industry has seen in many years. To ensure it is credible, applicable, and embraced, broad and ongoing engagement is essential. The monthly online updates are your window into progress, your invitation to participate, and your opportunity to help shape Australia’s future outdoor adventure standards.
Stay tuned, stay involved, and let’s build a safer, more inclusive, and resilient outdoor industry—together.
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