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(United Nations' International Day of Persons with Disabilities - amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future)

National award-winning tourism advisory and training company Sparrowly Group has unveiled its latest 2024 edition of its Accessible and Inclusive Tourism paper, a pivotal resource designed to guide Australia's tourism industry in creating genuinely accessible and inclusive experiences for all.

This year's edition, titled Creating Real Inclusion: A Call to Arms to the Tourism Industry, explores the progress made across Australia in accessible tourism while also addressing the critical work still needed to make tourism inclusive for everyone.

With in-depth insights, the paper draws from real-life case studies and highlights key themes, including inclusive place design, responsive experiences and digital accessibility. It examines challenges and celebrates progress within the tourism industry, spotlighting leading tourism businesses that have made significant strides in welcoming visitors of all abilities.

Giovanna Lever, Managing Director of Sparrowly Group and co-author underscored the need for the industry to embrace inclusion beyond mere compliance. She commented, “Accessible and inclusive tourism is not just a box to tick, it's about creating unforgettable, authentic experiences for all visitors.”

“At Sparrowly Group, we believe that, through universal design and empathy-driven customer service, the tourism industry can be a true ally for people with disabilities. By welcoming everyone, we unlock broader economic and social benefits as well as build loyalty from visitors who can experience and enjoy Australia to the fullest,” she said.

Since its first release in 2018, Sparrowly Group's accessible and inclusive tourism paper has championed inclusivity by guiding businesses, destinations and policymakers towards meaningful, practical actions that support access and inclusion. This latest edition delves into ongoing initiatives, the role of technology, and policy frameworks that foster inclusivity, such as the new Disability Services and Inclusion Act 2023 and the pioneering WELCOME Framework from Austrade.

The paper provides tourism operators with tools and best practices, encouraging them to actively seek feedback and co-design experiences with people with disabilities. It also includes case studies from around the country, showcasing how far the industry has come in the last eight years towards ensuring Australia is welcoming, accessible and inclusive for all.

The full paper, including an audio version, can be accessed on Sparrowly Group's website at https://www.sparrowly.com/accessible-tourism.

Images available to download here (with image descriptions and credits).

For media inquiries, please contact:

Giovanna Lever                                                             Jackie Hicks
Managing Director and Co-author                                   Co-author        
Sparrowly Group                                                           Sparrowly Group
Email: giovanna@sparrowly.com                                     Email: jackie@sparrowly.com
Phone: 0412 664 335                                                    Phone: 0424 001 240