Director - Communications, P.R. & Media Update - Mar '25

Melinda Brown

Director - Skål International Australia

Melinda Brown

Communications, P.R. & Media

Hello Skålleagues!

It is a little crazy to think that we are already in March and just days away from the 111th Skål International Australia National Assembly and AGM in Broome. I am really looking forward to seeing many of you there!

You would have also recently received communication from Skål International alerting you to the fact that the 24th edition of the Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards is here. Sooooo…. it’s time for Australian Clubs and members to shine! These awards celebrate the best in sustainable tourism, giving businesses and organisations the recognition they deserve for their commitment to making travel better for the planet, people, and communities. Australia has put in a good showing over the years in these Awards and we look forward to some more fantastic entries in 2025.

This year’s awards come with exciting updates, including newly defined categories proposed by the Sustainability Committee, to ensure the awards remain relevant and reflect the latest sustainability trends in tourism.

If your business or project is making a real difference in sustainable tourism, this is your chance to get recognised on a global stage! Winning (or even just being shortlisted) can boost your credibility, attract new business, and open doors to partnerships. Plus, Skål International will showcase all entries through its website, social media, and press coverage, putting your efforts in front of industry professionals worldwide.

Winners will be announced at the 2025 Skål International World Congress in Cuzco, Peru (25-30 September 2025), where they will receive a personalised trophy and extensive media coverage.

As I mentioned above, this year’s awards come with a few important updates. The categories have been refined to better reflect industry advancements and current sustainability trends. The deadline has been moved forward, with all entries now due by 31 May 2025 – so don’t leave it to the last minute!

Another key requirement is that all entries must be endorsed by a Skål International Club (except for government entities). The judging process remains rigorous, with an independent panel of top sustainability experts carefully evaluating each submission.

There are eight categories available, so whether you run a hotel, lead a community project, or drive eco-friendly travel initiatives, there’s a place for your efforts:

  1. Accessible Tourism

  2. Accommodation, Food & Hospitality Services

  3. Communication

  4. Community, Government & Service Projects

  5. Educational & Social Programs

  6. Innovative Sustainable IT Solutions

  7. Land & Marine Biodiversity

  8. Tour Operators & Travel Agencies

How to Enter

Getting involved is easy – and it’s free!

  1. Check Eligibility – Open to businesses, NGOs, educational institutions, and government agencies involved in tourism.

  2. Get Endorsed – Your entry must be supported by a Skål International Club (except for government bodies).

  3. Submit Your Application – Using the official form.

  4. Beat the Deadline – All entries must be in by 31 May 2025.

Submit Your Entry Here

An expert panel of sustainability professionals will assess entries based on environmental conservation, social responsibility, and economic sustainability. Those who come out on top will receive a trophy and global exposure, starting with the Awards presentation at the Skål International World Congress.

The Skål International Australia Executive encourages all members and Clubs to nominate deserving businesses and projects. This is an incredible opportunity to highlight the fantastic sustainability work being done right here in Australia. Let’s showcase our leadership in sustainable tourism and make an impact on the world stage!

Don’t miss out – get your entry in today and let your sustainability initiatives take centre stage!

See you in Broome next week!

Skål!

Melinda Brown

Director - Skål International Australia