Leave No Trace builds awareness, appreciation and respect for our natural and cultural heritage.

Leave No Trace Australia is a national non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting and inspiring responsible outdoor travel and recreation through education, research and partnerships.

We are dedicated to promoting attitudinal change and the empowerment of individuals, companies and communities to accept responsibility for the conservation of their natural environment. This is achieved by forming partnerships to foster the development of Leave No Trace minimal impact skills and ethics.

7 Principles of Leave No Trace

More substantive information on each of the principles is contained in the Skills and Ethics booklet – Australian edition

  • Plan Ahead and Prepare
  • Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
  • Dispose of Waste Properly
  • Leave What You Find
  • Minimise Campfire Impacts
  • Respect Wildlife
  • Be Considerate of Your Hosts and Other Visitors

The following information within these seven principles is recommended as a guide to minimise the impact of your visits to the natural and cultural heritage areas of Australia. Leave No Trace depends more on attitude and awareness than on rules and regulations.

Minimum impact travel and outdoor recreation practices must be flexible and tempered by judgement and experience. Techniques are continually evolving and improving. The general rule is to consider the variables of each area in terms of culture, wildlife, vegetation, soil, climate, and use that it receives. Then, use this information to determine which recommended practices to apply.