This phase focuses on helping operators build meaningful relationships, celebrate local identity, and ensure all visitors can enjoy inclusive and respectful experiences.

Tourism in Southern NSW is deeply connected to local stories, traditions, and ways of life. Strengthening these connections benefits both residents and visitors, creating richer, more authentic experiences. By valuing people and culture, you help safeguard the character of the region while creating a more inclusive, resilient, and community-centred visitor economy.

Reflective questions to get you started:

• How does your business engage with local communities and cultural groups?
• Do your marketing and experiences reflect the authentic stories of your place?
• How accessible and inclusive are your visitor experiences?
• What steps could you take to strengthen social and cultural relationships?

This phase draws on Destination NSW’s Sustainable Tourism Resources, the Austrade Sustainable Tourism Toolkit, and the Access & Inclusion Pathway.

Explore the ‘Developing socio-cultural sustainable experiences’ section to learn more about working with First Nations communities, designing inclusive visitor experiences, and sharing authentic local stories that strengthen community connection.