Framework empowers communities to have a voice in the tourism sector
Released today, the Community Engagement Framework is a free, step-by-step guide to help Victoria’s tourism sector capture and consider community perspectives as it undertakes more sustainable tourism development.
It has been designed to help tourism operators and local councils to deliver tourism initiatives that best reflect the character of their local communities.
Developed in consultation with City of Hobsons Bay, Macedon Ranges Shire Council and City of Whittlesea and tested with industry, the Framework aims to encourage and empower operators to engage with local communities, so they can harness local knowledge as they work to uncover business opportunities and better understand the challenges associated with tourism projects.
Drawing on real-world case studies to showcase how Victorian councils and organisations have undertaken community engagement, the Framework is underpinned by best practice stakeholder engagement and co‑design principles to enable operators and local councils to carry out meaningful conversations with community groups and ultimately, support the sustainable growth of the state’s visitor economy.
The Community Engagement Framework is one of the actions identified in Experience Victoria 2033 – the Victorian Government’s strategic plan to shape the future of Victoria’s visitor economy.
