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Queensland’s Sunshine Coast is poised to set a new global standard in accessible tourism. The joint venture of Spinal Life Australia and the innovative firm Cérge heralds the dawn of a revolutionary project: the Access Accelerator program. This initiative promises to turn the region into an epicentre of accessible tourism, setting a national benchmark.

In the heart of Australia, 1.3 million individuals from the accessible tourism sector actively seek destinations where they can embark on overnight stays or day trips. Yet, alarming statistics from the ABS revealed that the most rampant disability discrimination emerges from service and hospitality staff. This longstanding barrier has prevented the full inclusion of this substantial market segment in the tourism industry.

The Access Accelerator program, set to launch in October 2023, isn’t just a reactive response to these concerning statistics. It’s a proactive solution. Through a mix of in-depth disability awareness sessions, exposure to state-of-the-art inclusive technology, hands-on planning, and real-world testimonials from customers, tourism businesses will receive a 360-degree education. The program’s design ensures a ripple effect, reaching far beyond the immediate participants, making a lasting change in attitudes and practices.

This ambitious initiative has earned the backing of key industry players. Matt Stoeckel, the esteemed CEO of Visit Sunshine Coast, voiced robust support. He opined, “Embracing inclusivity is not just a necessity but a responsibility. The Access Accelerator offers our tourism stakeholders the perfect platform to uplift their offerings, ensuring every visitor feels valued, understood, and welcomed.”

It’s not just local entities that see the immense value in this partnership. Chris Kerrisk, Cérge’s co-founder, expressed pride in collaborating with Spinal Life Australia. He emphasized the dual benefits of the Access Accelerator program: “Besides augmenting services for our disability community, this venture will strategically position businesses to tap into the ever-expanding accessible tourism market, giving them an unparalleled competitive edge.”

A series of avant-garde workshops spread across various dates have been meticulously planned to ensure comprehensive outreach. This strategy accommodates the dynamic nature of business operations, ensuring no entity is left behind.

Dane Cross, the revered Senior Advisor – Access & Advocacy of Spinal Life Australia, envisions a brighter future for accessible tourism. His excitement was palpable as he declared, “Garnering the Accessible Tourism Enablers Grant isn’t just a win for us but for every single individual seeking accessible tourist destinations. Our goal is clear: establishing Queensland as a world leader in accessible tourism. With plans to reach out to a diverse array of 50 tourism operators, we are on the right trajectory.”

As the wheels of this monumental initiative begin to turn, Spinal Life Australia and Cérge convey their heartfelt gratitude to the Queensland Government. Their unwavering support is a testament to a shared vision: a Queensland that celebrates diversity, ensuring every traveller feels right at home.