Queensland launches the National Quality Tourism Framework – Accessibility Accreditation Module
The 27th of September is World Tourism Day.
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a massive social and economic impact. Both developed and developing economies have been hit. And marginalized groups and the most vulnerable have been hit hardest of all. The restart of tourism will help kickstart recovery and growth. It is essential that the benefits this will bring are enjoyed widely and fairly.
World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has therefore designated World Tourism Day 2021 as a day to focus on “Tourism for Inclusive Growth.”
It is great to see that the Queensland Tourism Industry Council has launched the Accessibility Accreditation Module, which forms part of Australia’s national Quality Tourism Framework.
WORKING TOWARDS A MORE INCLUSIVE INDUSTRY
Inclusive tourism is an important issue for our industry. When seeking accommodation and experiences, the ability of one member of a travel party can ultimately decide what the entire party does and where they stay.
Disabilities are not limited to wheelchair use and mobility issues. Impairments to vision or hearing, cognitive function, autism and food intolerances are often invisible but will also impact a consumers travel choices and booking behaviour.
Appealing to this market and being an inclusive business involves understanding and implementing provisions to cater to varied needs, as well as communicating accessible features effectively to ensure your accessible product can be found.
Through the Accessibility self-assessment module, the Australian Tourism Industry Council (ATIC) aims to improve the range and reach of accessible tourism product in the Australian market.
We hope for a future where people of all abilities can actively engage in tourism activities with as much freedom and enjoyment as any other traveller. Living with a disability does not limit a person’s sense of adventure, after all.
WHAT IS THE ACCESSIBILITYSELF-ASSESSMENTMODULE ?
The Accessibility self-assessment module joins the suite of best practice programs under the national Quality Tourism Framework.
Developed by the ATIC in consultation with TravAbility, the Accessibility self-assessment module aims to help businesses evaluate how inclusive their experience offering is for people with a disability.
The module will be available via the Quality Tourism Framework online dashboard and aims to increase visibility of accessible experiences and encourage tourism businesses to make adjustments that will accommodate more visitors of all abilities.
To support the launch of the module QTIC has prepared a comprehensive guide to Accessible Tourism covering the market size, the needs and aspirations of a traveller with a disability, and how to engage in the process of becoming accredited.
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