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Port Augusta Tourism Development Strategy 2025–2030 Released

The Port Augusta Tourism Development Strategy 2025–2030 has now been released and shared with the community, marking an important milestone for the future of tourism in the region.

It has been a privilege to contribute to this strategy during 2025, working alongside Port Augusta City Council, local tourism operators, community members and industry partners to co-design a shared plan for growing Port Augusta’s visitor economy in a way that reflects local values and delivers genuine community benefit.

View a copy here: Port Augusta Tourism Development Strategy 2025-30

At its core, the strategy focuses on turning transit into time well spent — positioning Port Augusta as more than a gateway and encouraging self-drive visitors to slow down, stay longer and connect more deeply with the coastal city’s stories, landscapes and people.

The strategy is guided by five strategic pillars, providing a clear framework for future investment, collaboration and destination development across priority areas including:

  • Place Activation & Destination Appeal

  • Product Development

  • Partnerships & Investment

  • Destination Marketing

  • Ecotourism & Community Stewardship

The strategy highlights a number of flagship opportunities that will help shape Port Augusta’s next chapter as a welcoming, experience-led and future-focused destination. Key priorities include:

  • Transformation of the wharf precinct and foreshore, supported by an upcoming $15 million upgrade

  • Activation of the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden as a national leader in regenerative tourism and nature-based experiences

  • Renewal of the Wadlata Outback Centre to enhance visitor engagement and storytelling

  • Strategic positioning of Port Augusta Central Oval as a regional events and conferencing hub

  • Strengthening hero assets including the Pichi Richi Railway and Yarta Purtli Gallery

The strategy also recognises that tourism growth relies on more than infrastructure and marketing — it relies on people.

With strong community input, the plan highlights the importance of future workforce supply and skills development, supported by the emerging Port Augusta Technical College, which will play a critical role in developing local capability and empowering future leaders across hospitality and tourism.

The Port Augusta Tourism Development Strategy 2025–2030 is designed as a shared roadmap and practical tool for:

  • Local tourism operators

  • Aboriginal businesses and cultural custodians

  • Council and public sector partners

  • Regional development organisations

  • Investors and collaborators

  • Residents and community leaders, including Business Port Augusta

  • Visitors who care about the places they explore

This strategy sets a strong foundation for coordinated action, investment attraction and destination development over the next five years. I’m incredibly proud to have contributed to this strategy and look forward to seeing Port Augusta’s visitor economy grow through a shared commitment to place, community and long-term value.

Speak to Alex Brown Project Company about your next regional tourism or community project, make contact here.

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