WHAT'S ON - EVENTS
06 Apr 2010 - Risk Management Workshop
A workshop that includes some scenario-based experience. More »»
11 Apr 2010 - Inaugural International Healthy Parks Healthy People Congress 2010
Explore how we can take better advantage of the way nature significantly contributes to our wellbeing and broader societal benefits. More »»
17 Apr 2010 - Great Aussie Camp Out
The Great Aussie Camp Out (GACO) will bring together thousands of Australians where they share the experience of camping out under the stars. More »»
PrintFact Sheet
Victoria ’s Adventure Activity Standards (AAS) project is Australia ’s first industry-supported safety and environmental guidelines for all providers of group adventure activities.
The AAS are providing clarity on risk management and environmentally sustainable practices for Victoria ’s adventure sector, which includes commercial and not-for-profit providers.
They cover essential practices, including leader competency, emergency procedures, equipment, and commitment to environmentally sustainable practices.
Most providers of these activities already have responsible practices and policies in place to ensure the safety and environmental sustainability of their activities. The AAS provide a common benchmark for these providers, as well as enabling new organisations to be informed and helping build consistent practices across the commercial and not-for-profit sector.
The AAS project is funded by the Victorian Government and facilitated by the Outdoor Recreation Centre Inc.(Victoria), which ensures consideration for recreation, education, professional, camping, tourism and environmental organisations, and aims to encourage sustainable, safe and fun outdoor activities.
Victorian Government agencies, including Sport and Recreation Victoria, Parks Victoria, Tourism Victoria and the Department of Sustainability and Environment, are closely involved in developing the Standards. Emergency services, education bodies, insurers and risk management specialists are also providing ongoing input.
Stage One of the project developed AAS for seven adventurous activities, which were launched by Victoria ’s Minister for Sport and Recreation, Justin Madden, in July 2003. These include:
- Artificial Surface Rock Climbing
- Natural Surface Rock Climbing
- River Rafting
- Recreational Caving
- Recreational Angling
- Mountain Biking
- 4 Wheel Driving.
Stage Two of the project has developed AAS for an additional 8 activities, including:
- Horse Trail Riding
- Bushwalking
- Abseiling
- Surfing
- Trail Bike Riding
- Challenge Ropes
- Kayaking & Canoeing
- Scuba Diving/snorkelling and wildlife swims
...with two more AAS for resort and non-resort based snow activities being developed in late 2004/early 2005.
The AAS are flexible and able to be developed further as requirements change.
The AAS compliment existing industry frameworks including the National Outdoor Recreation Industry Training Package and the National Outdoor Leader Registration Scheme.
The AAS are integrated into Parks Victoria’s licensing agreements for adventure businesses operating on public land and the Camping Association of Victoria’s and the Better Business Tourism accreditation programs.
They are also being linked with the Victorian Department of Education’s ongoing process of updating guidelines for schools participating in adventure activities.