At its 24 February meeting, Kiama Council supported Councillor Draisma’s urgency motion to advance plans for a Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP), ensuring the council can apply for the Special Entertainment Precinct Kickstart Grant before applications close on 12 March.

Councillor Draisma emphasised the importance of moving forward with the process, stating, 

"We need to strengthen our application and get a good outcome for the community." 

While staff confirmed that the council’s existing resolution met the threshold for application, Councillor Draisma highlighted the need for councillors to discuss which areas should be included in the draft precinct to support the bid.

Proposed Locations - Kiama Town Centre and Gerringong

The primary focus of the proposed precinct is Kiama’s town centre, including Terralong Street, Shoalhaven Street, and the Harbour Precinct.

However, the draft motion also acknowledged Gerringong as a potential satellite precinct. A review of Gerringong town centre’s planning framework could allow for the inclusion of additional sites or lots, pending community consultation.

A working group of local creatives and businesses has already provided input on the proposed areas, and further consultation will be essential in shaping the final precinct boundaries.

Grant Funding and Development Approval

Council staff confirmed that if successful, the grant, ranging from $50,000 to $200,000, would fund essential planning work, including an acoustic report and community engagement.

However, they clarified that establishing an SEP would not override the need for development approvals.

“This does not give retrospective approval to venues,” staff noted. “Businesses will still need to comply with existing planning processes.”

With council’s endorsement, the application process will now proceed, with further community consultation to follow if funding is secured.