FAQs
What is the visitor economy?
The Visitor Economy looks at what makes a destination inviting, not just for travellers but for everyone – locals and visitors alike. It is more than just the tourism industry, it is everything that supports and enhances the experience including local shops, restaurants, service amenities and parks. The visitor economy covers all related spending, which contributes to the overall economic well-being of the destination. It looks at how infrastructure, services, and businesses work together to benefit the community, create jobs, and make the area more vibrant and welcoming for all.
What is the Destination Management Plan?
The Bendigo Regional Destination Management Plan (DMP) articulates the strategic tourism opportunities for the Bendigo Region (encompassing the Local Government boundaries of City of Greater Bendigo, Mount Alexander Shire, Central Goldfields Shire and Loddon Shire). The DMP is a Strategic Framework and Action Plan to be activated by Bendigo Regional Tourism in partnership with Local Government, and other Local, Regional and State Partners. This Plan will soon be released publicly.
What is the Local Area Action Plan?
Individual Local Area Action Plans for each region have been developed in alignment with the Bendigo Regional Destination Management Plan which outline the regional tourism priorities, considerations and priority projects specific to each Council region. It is an internal document for Council to inform the development and/or updates of our Economic Development and Visitor Economy Strategies.
What is the Visitor Economy Strategy?
The Visitor Economy Strategy will align with the Bendigo Region Destination Management Plan, including the Loddon Shire Local Area Action Plan, as well as the Loddon Shire Economic Development Strategy 2025-2029 (soon to be released). The Visitor Economy Strategy will provide a condensed roadmap to help grow and strengthen our tourism and visitor economy, ensuring it enriches both our community and the unique character of our region.
When will this project be completed?
The project will be completed by the end of 2024 (due to local government elections), with the expectation that the Visitor Economy Strategy will be endorsed by our Council in early 2025 and released to the public.