The Global Destination Sustainability Movement (GDS-Movement) has recognised the city as the Most Improved Destination for 2025, marking a significant year-on-year advancement after it’s first participation in the index in 2024. The award reflects measurable progress across sustainability strategies and action plans assessed by the GDS-Index and positions Adelaide more prominently as an environmentally focused business-events destination.

GDS progress and stakeholder collaboration

Business Events Adelaide coordinated the city’s GDS-Index submission with backing from the South Australian Tourism Commission, the Adelaide Convention Centre, the City of Adelaide and other local organisations. The Index evaluation covers extensive criteria, reported as 76 criteria and some 300 sub-questions. It assesses destination governance, environmental measures, social impact and operational practices.