Programs
Tourism accreditation, rating and certification programs must submit an application for T-QUAL Accreditation to the Tourism Quality Council of Australia (TQCA) Secretariat . The program will undergo an assessment of their accreditation standards to ensure they reach TQCA’s national quality benchmark and assess businesses and operators to the highest level.
Application forms and guidelines can be found at www.ret.gov.au/tqual. Applicants may also contact the TQCA Secretariat on 02 6243 7024 or by emailing ntaf@ret.gov.au.
For a summary of the application process, see our FAQs for Accreditation, Rating and Certification Programs.
Businesses and Operators
Businesses and operators cannot directly apply. Instead, they must join, or be a member of, a T-QUAL endorsed accreditation, rating or certification program. By default, this membership entitles them to T-QUAL Accreditation with no further assessment.
T-QUAL endorsed programs include:
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The Australian Tourism Accreditation Program (ATAP) certifies operators who have met specific quality criteria ensuring they are committed to exceeding consumer expectations with great customer service and the highest standards of business practice. |
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AAA Tourism’s STAR Rating Scheme accredits accommodation operators via an assessment of facilities, services, cleanliness, quality and condition. The standards awarded determine the properties’ STAR Rating. Further to the award of T-QUAL Accreditation, AAA Tourism now also assesses with T-QUAL criteria such as customer service, complaints handling policies, sustainability and general governance.
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Ecotourism Australia’s ECO Certification is a globally recognised brand that provides certification based on business, environmental, social & cultural sustainability.
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Developed by industry and Aboriginal Tourism Australia (ATA), the Respecting Our Culture (ROC) Program embraces national accreditation standards and encourages industry to operate with respect for Indigenous cultural heritage.
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The EarthCheck Certified Program is designed to help the travel and tourism industry increase operational efficiencies, maximise guest experience and minimise their environmental footprints.
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Caravan, RV and Accommodation Industry of Australia’s National Accreditation Program accredits quality business practice in the areas of business planning; risk, environmental and human resources management; marketing; and customer service. |
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Restaurant and Catering’s Savour Australia Plate Rating Scheme ensures and recognises excellence, professionalism, profitably and sustainability in the restaurant and catering sector. |
T-QUAL endorsed programs guarantee their members hold relevant licensing and display quality in:
- Customer service;
- Business practice;
- Presentation and provision of facilities;
- Policies and administration;
- Complaints handling procedures;
- Accurate advertising; and
- Commitment to continuous improvement.
Additionally, programs assess businesses and operators with criteria specific to their individual schemes.