Kiama Council is gathering ideas and viewpoints to help develop a Kiama Visitor Economy Strategy for local tourism and events that will balance economic growth with community benefit.

Council has also appointed DTM Tourism to lead the development of the Strategy.

With over 30 years of expertise in destination management, tourism strategy, and visitor experience development, DTM Tourism brings a wealth of experience in creating practical and achievable tourism strategies for regional destinations.

Council manager of tourism & events Sally Bursell said an important element of any new strategy would be balancing economic growth with community benefit.

“Our local visitor economy continues to play a vital role in our region’s economy, with up to 1.2 million visitors a year spending a record $392 million.”

"Tourism is the backbone of our economy, but we must manage it carefully to protect what makes our region special.”

“This strategy will help us balance visitor numbers, easing seasonal peaks and and encouraging longer, more meaningful stays."

The Strategy will focus on:

• Enhancing Kiama's reputation as a boutique event and visitor destination;
• Supporting local businesses and operators to build capacity and skills;
• Strengthening connections to state-level initiatives, including Destination NSW’s Visitor Economy Strategy and NSW Vibrancy Reforms;
• Identifying opportunities for infrastructure investment, transport connectivity and visitor accommodation growth;
• Supporting Kiama’s night-time economy through strategic placemaking and collaborative visitor experiences.

“Now the NSW Government is pushing its vibrancy reforms and other new initiatives, and we need a local roadmap that responds to this new direction we’re heading in," Destination Kiama chair Matt Brown said.

Kiama Council is providing a variety of ways for people to contribute to the Kiama Visitor Economy Strategy, including an online survey and ideas board, as well as face-to-face discussions at our community pop-ups.

Have your say at the Kiama Council Visitor Economy Strategy website.