Tourism Dep’t audits dive industry to strengthen safety framework
June 22, 2026 11:15 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
The Department of Tourism (DoT) will be commencing a comprehensive audit of Vanuatu’s dive industry as part of its ongoing commitment to strengthening dive safety standards and safeguarding the country’s reputation as a premier diving destination.
Dive tourism remains a key pillar of Vanuatu’s visitor economy, attracting enthusiasts from around the world to experience its unique underwater landscapes, rich marine biodiversity and globally recognised dive sites such as the SS President Coolidge.
The sector plays a significant role in supporting local businesses, employment and sustainable tourism development.
The Department has engaged Mr. Malcolm Venturoni of the Professional Divers Group to conduct this independent, expert assessment of dive safety standards across all registered operators.
The audit will evaluate compliance with established protocols and provide recommendations to enhance safety, operational procedures and overall industry resilience.
“I look forward to working with the Vanuatu Government’s Department of Tourism and the members of the Vanuatu Scuba Operators Association on this project.
“The project aims to assess the operation and safety requirements of all registered dive operators in Vanuatu,” said Mr. Venturoni.
“It also provides the opportunity to work with each of the 12 dive tourism operators located on Santo, Efate and Tanna, noting high standards and good practices where observed and identifying opportunities for improvement where warranted.”
The dive industry is supported by the Vanuatu Scuba Operators Association (VSOA), which represents 12 registered operators that have collectively operated in the country for over 20 years. While the industry has established a strong track record, diving is inherently a high-risk tourism activity, requiring consistent adherence to internationally recognised safety standards and best practices.
“The Vanuatu Scuba Operators Association welcomes the upcoming independent third-party audit to be conducted by Malcolm Venturoni of Professional Diving Services,” said Jack Power, President of the VSOA and owner of Pacific Dive.
“As an association representing professional dive operators throughout Vanuatu, we recognise the value of independent assessment in helping to maintain the highest standards of safety, professionalism and operational excellence across our industry.”
The audit provides an important opportunity for operators to benchmark their practices against internationally recognised standards and to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
Vanuatu has earned a strong reputation as one of the Pacific’s premier diving destinations, and initiatives such as this demonstrate the industry’s collective commitment to providing safe, high-quality diving experiences for both domestic and international visitors.
This proactive approach reflects the Government’s commitment to ensuring that Vanuatu remains not only an attractive destination for divers but also a safe and well-regulated one.
The DoT acknowledges the support of the Australian Government through the Economic Support Package, which has enabled the implementation of this critical assessment.
