Kiama Municipal Council is taking steps that will allow it to apply for a NSW Government grant to explore the creation of a Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP).

“If we are able to secure a grant, Council is committed to working with community members and local businesses to ensure mutually beneficial outcomes,” said a Council spokesperson.

This could be a prime opportunity to enhance Kiama’s appeal as a destination for performing arts, culture, and community engagement. 

"We want to create something truly special for Kiama," said Mayor Cameron McDonald. 

"This is about putting the foundations in place, so we can begin to develop a thriving cultural precinct that benefits everyone – residents, visitors and businesses."

The SEP initiative is designed to bring vibrant live music and entertainment to the forefront, fostering growth for local businesses while enriching the cultural life of the region.

This exciting proposal starts with a recommendation for the Council to review its current Tourism and Events Strategic Plan and convert it into a comprehensive Visitor Economy Strategy. 

This new strategy will incorporate key findings and recommendations from:

• The Kiama Major Events Impact Review and Recommendations Report,
• The Kiama Regional Economic Development Strategy,
• The Tourism & Events Service Review,
• The NSW Vibrancy Reforms.

Council is also proposing to consult with the Kiama Special Entertainment Precinct working group and licensed venue operators to define an appropriate boundary for the potential SEP precinct. Having a defined SEP boundary is a mandatory condition to apply for the SEP Kickstart Grant Program being offered by Create NSW, which provides between $50,000 to $200,000 to develop a special entertainment precinct. 

Special Entertainment Precincts are a relatively new initiative, reducing regulatory barriers for live music venues and creating hubs of cultural activity. For Kiama, the precinct aligns with Council’s draft Cultural Plan vision to “nurture a vibrant, inclusive, and dynamic cultural ecosystem that celebrates diversity, creativity, and community engagement”. 

"This initiative isn’t just about entertainment; it’s about fostering a sense of community, supporting local businesses, and enhancing Kiama’s reputation as a vibrant, welcoming destination," said Mayor McDonald.

Councillors are set to vote on a recommendation to take the following actions:

1. Review the existing Tourism and Events Strategic Plan and transition it into a Visitor Economy Strategy, incorporating relevant findings from the identified reports and reviews.

2. Consult with the working group and licensed venue operators to finalise a proposed boundary for the Special Entertainment Precinct.

3. Deliver a report at the February 2025 Council meeting confirming an appropriate boundary for the precinct.