funding · Central Coast Council
Central Coast conference bid carries $41,553 preliminary budget
The proposed 2028 LGNSW Destination and Visitor Economy Conference budget includes $29,313 in cash costs and $12,240 in internal staff costs, with Tourism Levy and partner funding proposed to offset the expense.
Central Coast Council has approved a preliminary $41,553 budget for its expression of interest to host the 2028 Local Government NSW Destination and Visitor Economy Conference, putting tourism-related funding behind a potential event for the region.
The budget comprises $29,313 in cash costs and $12,240 in internal staff costs. Funding would be provided through the 2027-28 financial year budget process if Local Government NSW accepts the proposal.
Council also approved a plan to offset hosting costs with matched funding from the Tourism Levy. Further investment could come from partners such as the Gosford Erina Business Chamber, using funds held on behalf of the former Tourism Central Coast.
The proposal does not yet set the conference’s delegate numbers, program requirements or final hosting costs. Council will receive another report if the expression of interest succeeds and those details are confirmed with Local Government NSW.
That later report will establish the final cost of hosting and the arrangements needed to deliver the conference. The approved figure is a preliminary hosting budget, rather than a final conference cost or procurement package.
The conference proposal could bring visitor and business activity to the Central Coast, while drawing on Council and tourism-related funding. Its effect on local businesses and event suppliers will depend on the hosting requirements and final program.
The Economic Development Committee’s next meeting is scheduled for 6 October 2026 after its planned 1 September meeting was cancelled. The conference budget was approved without opposition.
Reference minutes
Central Coast Council Ordinary Council Meeting, held on 25 and 31 August 2026.
Key facts from the minutes
- Council approved a preliminary hosting budget of $41,553 for a possible 2028 LGNSW Destination and Visitor Economy Conference.
- The budget comprises $29,313 in cash costs and $12,240 in internal staff costs.
- Funding would be provided through the 2027-28 financial year budget process if the expression of interest succeeds.
- Matched Tourism Levy funding and partner investment were proposed to offset hosting costs.
- The Gosford Erina Business Chamber was identified as a possible partner using funds held on behalf of the former Tourism Central Coast.
- A further report is required if the bid succeeds and final delegate numbers, program requirements and costs are confirmed.
Why it matters
- A successful bid could bring visitor and business activity to the Central Coast and create conference-related work for local businesses, while requiring Council and tourism-related funding.