Wide open plains covered by idly grazing kangaroos, koalas resting in the bough of a gum tree - these are instantly recognised as being uniquely Australian. The uniqueness of Australia's wildlife is also a significant tourism resource. The sustainability of that resource is the focus of this year's inaugural Sustainable Wildlife Tourism Convention. Wildlife tourism is tourism that involves encounters with non-domesticated animals either in their natural environment or in captivity. Australia has more unique fauna than any other major tourist destination in the world and many international visitors come to Australia specifically to view this wildlife.
Wildlife is also important to domestic tourists, and is an area of considerable economic potential.
While having considerable economic potential, wildlife tourism, particularly activities based on free-ranging animals, has the potential to destroy the very resource on which it is based. Therefore, if wildlife tourism is to continue to grow, understanding and commitment is needed to ensure that activities are developed and managed in a sustainable manner. It is important that industry, researchers and government work together to set a direction for the future of wildlife tourism in Australia. 5. It is envisaged that the convention will result in a series of written recommendations for the future direction of wildlife tourism in Australia. This is an exciting opportunity for you to be actively involved in assisting the sustainable development and management of wildlife tourism in Australia.