The outdoor sectors are moving fast. New research, shifting funding landscapes, evolving policy, leadership challenges, and emerging best practice — if you're not keeping up, you're playing catch-up. And in an industry built on safety, professional development, and community, that's a gap that matters. That's why each month, Outdoors NSW & ACT publishes the ONSWACT Monthly Newsletter — a curated digest of what's happening across the whole industry, the conversations driving o

Trail bike riding is more than a weekend activity. Across NSW and the ACT, trail bike riders are travelling, staying, spending, connecting with friends, supporting local businesses and contributing to regional communities. They buy fuel. They stop for food and coffee. They book accommodation. They camp. They purchase equipment. They visit towns that may otherwise not be on the traditional visitor economy radar. They return to places where they feel welcomed, understood and su

On 11 June 2026, or the week of 8-12 June, workplaces across the world are being encouraged to rethink where work happens — and more importantly, how work supports the health, creativity and wellbeing of the people who do it. Outdoor Office Day is a timely reminder that nature is not something we should only squeeze into the edges of our day. It is not just for weekends, holidays or the occasional lunchtime walk when the diary allows. Nature can, and should, be part of everyd

The outdoor industry is full of people and organisations who do much more than deliver activities. They create confidence, build connection, support wellbeing, introduce people to nature, strengthen communities and help more people enjoy the outdoors safely. Now it is time for the community to have its say. As part of the 2026 NSW & ACT Outdoor Industry Awards, Outdoors NSW & ACT is inviting the public, participants, schools, families, partners and industry peers to vote in t

Australia’s outdoor industry supports practical, evidence-based approaches to improving E-bike safety — but there is growing concern that some emerging regulatory proposals risk creating unintended consequences for outdoor recreation, regional tourism, active transport and family participation. Over the past two years, more than 26 separate inquiries, reviews and legislative discussions relating to E-bikes have taken place across Australia. While the safety concerns driving t

There has never been a better time to shine a light on the many career pathways available in the Outdoor Industry — and in particular, the important role of outdoor guides and leaders. Across NSW, the ACT and beyond, outdoor guides help people connect with nature, challenge themselves, build confidence, learn new skills and experience places they may never have explored on their own. Whether it is bushwalking, paddling, canyoning, mountain biking, climbing, camping, school ou

There is something special about an industry that changes lives every single day — often without seeking the spotlight. Across NSW and the ACT, people and organisations in the Outdoor Industry are building confidence, creating connection, supporting wellbeing, developing skills, caring for Country, welcoming visitors, and helping more people experience the power of the outdoors. That work deserves to be seen and celebrated . The Outdoors NSW & ACT Award Programs exist to do

Employment in the Outdoor Industry is not always straightforward. Across outdoor education, outdoor recreation, adventure tourism and related services, employment arrangements can look very different from one organisation to the next. Roles may be casual, part-time, full-time, fixed-term, seasonal, contract-based or delivered through more complex arrangements such as labour hire. Staff may work across multiple sites, remote environments, school settings, tourism operations, c

The inaugural NSW & ACT Outdoor Industry Awards were officially launched this morning by Outdoors NSW & ACT at its Connect & Share gathering, marking a significant milestone for the state’s growing and diverse Outdoor Industry. The Awards have been established to recognise excellence, leadership and innovation across outdoor education, outdoor recreation, adventure tourism, therapy, events and supporting organisations throughout NSW and the ACT. CEO Lori Modde said the Awards