NOOSA EVENTS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK, POLICY, AND GOVERNANCE · Attachment 1 - Noosa Events Strategic Framework

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Contents
1.    Noosa: A Place People Come Together ...................................................................................................3
2.    Community and Stakeholder Insights......................................................................................................4
3.    Vision, Values and Guiding Principles .....................................................................................................5
4.    Strategic Priorities..................................................................................................................................6
5.    Events Portfolio Mix................................................................................................................................7
6.    Situation Analysis: Events in Noosa.........................................................................................................8
7.    Council’s Role and Responsibilities ........................................................................................................9
8.    Event Support and Funding ...................................................................................................................10
9.    Action Plan, Outcomes and Measures...................................................................................................11
Appendix 1 – Noosa Council Planning and Governance Framework ...............................................................17
Appendix 2 – Noosa Events Portfolio Analysis & Key Insights .........................................................................18
Appendix 3 – Sponsorship and Funding Overview..........................................................................................21
Definitions ..................................................................................................................................................23




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1.Noosa: A Place People Come Together
1.1 A place shaped by community, culture and environment
Located 150 kilometres north of Brisbane, Noosa Shire is known for its natural beauty, distinctive landscapes
and strong sense of community, shaped over thousands of years by the Kabi Kabi People, the Traditional
Custodians of this land.

For generations, Noosa has been a place of gathering, cultural connection and shared experiences, deeply
connected to its unique natural environment. This enduring spirit continues to shape community life and
influences how residents and visitors experience Noosa today.

Widely recognised for its beaches, hinterland, waterways and lifestyle, Noosa is also defined by a long-
standing commitment to environmental stewardship. This commitment influences the way people live,
connect and welcome others, reflecting a shared responsibility to care for place.

Events are a natural expression of Noosa’s character. They bring people together, to celebrate community and
place, and contribute to the social, cultural and economic vitality of the Shire.

1.2 Balancing opportunity with responsibility
As a much-loved and highly valued destination, Noosa attracts increasing demand for access to its most iconic
and environmentally sensitive locations, placing growing pressure on infrastructure, public spaces, and the
everyday experience of residents.

As more people are drawn to come together in Noosa, careful planning is required to balance access,
experience and sustainability. Events play an important role in this balance — bringing benefits to the
community and local economy, while also contributing to cumulative impacts that must be actively managed.

Protection of Noosa’s natural environment remains one of the community’s highest priorities and the
foundation upon which all future event decisions are made.

This Events Strategic Framework sits within Council’s broader strategic framework, including the Destination
Management Plan (DMP), which, as Noosa’s strategic compass, guides how visitation and shared experiences
are managed across the region. See Appendix 1 – Noosa Council Planning and Governance Framework
The framework applies to events that require Council approval, funding or access to public land, and defines
how events will be planned, supported and managed to ensure they:
   •   strengthen community connection
   •   respect the environment and character of place
   •   and celebrate what makes Noosa unique.
Collectively, this framework provides a clear and consistent approach to ensuring events continue to bring
people together in ways that enhance Noosa’s community, environment and economy.

1.3 Purpose of Framework
The development of this Strategic Framework was an action identified in the Destination Management Plan
(DMP). Its purpose is to provide a guiding document for the management and funding of all events across the
Noosa Shire. It provides a single point of reference for event organisers.

The framework integrates the aspirations expressed in Council’s Economic, Social and Environment Strategies
as well as the Sport and Active Recreation, Waste, Cultural and Destination Management Plans. In addition, it
aims to strengthen Council’s engagement with the events industry, by streamlining processes and achieving
better and more efficient coordination across relevant Council areas.


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2.Community and Stakeholder Insights
Development of the Noosa Events Strategic Framework has been informed by community and stakeholder
engagement, including the Noosa Destination Management Plan (DMP), and targeted discussions with
businesses and event organisers.
This engagement provides a clear and consistent understanding of how events are valued in Noosa, the
benefits they deliver, and the expectations for how they should be planned and managed into the future.
Community Perspectives
Community feedback demonstrates strong overall support for events, particularly where they reflect Noosa’s
values, respect the environment and deliver clear community benefit, beyond traditional economic impact.
Consultation through the DMP identified:
   •   86% support for events that care for the community and environment and give back
   •   82% support for a balanced events portfolio aligned to Noosa’s values
   •   80% support for a more deliberate approach to managing the number, scale and timing of events
Across consultation, residents consistently highlighted that events are most positively received when they
enhance Noosa’s lifestyle, sense of place and community experience. At the same time, there is a clear
expectation that impacts are well managed and that events are appropriate to their location, scale and timing.

2.1 Stakeholder perspectives
Feedback from event organisers, businesses and internal Council teams involved in planning, supporting and
delivering events identified strong support for the overall direction of this Framework and the important role
events play in community life, business activity and place activation across Noosa.
Stakeholders consistently highlighted the need for a more coordinated and streamlined approach to event
management, with greater clarity around processes, responsibilities and decision-making. There was strong
support for improving communication and collaboration between Council and event organisers, reducing
complexity, and providing a more consistent and customer-focused experience.
Common themes included:
  • improving communication, transparency and coordination across Council;
  • providing a clearer and more consistent event planning and approval process;
  • establishing a single point of contact for event organisers;
  • improving traffic management planning, coordination and approval timeframes;
  • creating greater certainty through earlier engagement and longer-term planning approaches;
  • strengthening partnerships between Council, event organisers and other stakeholders;
  • improving the readiness and suitability of key event infrastructure and public spaces; and
  • recognising and communicating the community, environmental and business value generated through
     events.
Stakeholders also expressed strong support for a more proactive and collaborative approach to managing
future opportunities and challenges, including major infrastructure projects (e.g. the Noosa Beach Rockwall),
changing community expectations, increasing compliance requirements and opportunities associated with
Brisbane 2032.
This feedback reinforces the need for a strategic, coordinated and partnership-based approach to events that
improves certainty for organisers while ensuring positive outcomes for the community, economy and
environment.
This feedback has directly informed the Strategy, and is reflected in Section 3: Vision, Values and Guiding
Principles.




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3.Vision, Values and Guiding Principles
This section establishes the strategic direction for events in Noosa, setting out the Vision, Values and Guiding
Principles that will guide how events are planned, supported and managed. Together, these elements define
what success looks like for events in Noosa and provide a consistent foundation for decision-making across all
types of activity to ensure a good fit for Noosa.
3.1       Vision

This Vision captures the role events play in Noosa — bringing people together in ways that strengthen
connection, reflect the values of the community, and contribute positively to place.
                       “Great events that connect, respect and celebrate our people and place”

3.2 Values
The Noosa Events Strategy is grounded in a simple and shared set of values — that events in Noosa should:
      •     Connect people with each other, Noosa's unique places, and the local businesses, producers and
            experiences that contribute to a vibrant community and economy
      •     Respect the community, environment and character of Noosa
      •     Celebrate Noosa's people, places, culture and environment through events that create shared
            experiences, build local pride and showcase what makes our community unique
These values align with the DMP, reflect the economic, social and cultural goals embedded in other strategic
plans adopted by Council and reinforce Noosa’s long-standing values of stewardship, custodianship and
shared responsibility.
3.3       Guiding Principles

The following Guiding Principles define what ‘fit-for-purpose’ events look like in a Noosa context, translating
our Event Vision and Values into clear expectations that provide a consistent foundation for how events are
planned, supported and delivered.

Community at Heart
Events strengthen community connection, wellbeing and local pride, and are supported when they deliver
meaningful benefits for the people of Noosa. This includes positive outcomes for local businesses,
employment, volunteering and community life. Events should create opportunities for residents and visitors
alike to connect, participate and celebrate Noosa.
Authentic Noosa
Events celebrate what makes Noosa distinctive, showcasing its natural environment, culture, local
businesses, creativity and community spirit in ways that strengthen local pride and sense of place.
Balanced by Design
Events are curated as part of a balanced portfolio over time, managing cumulative impacts while ensuring a
diverse and vibrant calendar.
Right Event, Right Place, Right Time
Events are thoughtfully matched to location, scale and timing, respecting the character, capacity and rhythm
of Noosa’s places.

Tread Lightly, Leave Better
Events protect and enhance Noosa’s environment, contribute positively to place, are aligned with Noosa’s “50
Shades of Green” sustainability principles and, leave a lasting positive impact beyond the event itself.
Business Benefit
Events create meaningful and lasting benefits for local businesses, workers and the wider economy,
supporting local participation, employment and sustainable prosperity.



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4.Strategic Priorities
Noosa Council has identified five Strategic Priorities that guide where it will focus effort, investment and
leadership over the life of this Framework. Together, these priorities translate the Vision, Values and Guiding
Principles into clear areas of action. See Section 9: Action Plan, Outcomes and Measures

4.1 Improve the shared event experience
Enhance how events are planned, supported and delivered to provide a more consistent, transparent,
coordinated and certain experience for event organisers, stakeholders and the community.
This includes streamlining processes, improving communication and coordination, providing greater certainty
through clearer planning pathways and earlier engagement, strengthening partnerships with event organisers,
aligning funding and investment with strategic priorities, and ensuring Council support delivers measurable
community, economic and environmental benefits. Continuous improvement in event planning, delivery and
outcomes is a shared responsibility between Council and the events industry.

4.2 Maximise the Benefit of Events for the Noosa Community
Ensure events deliver meaningful and lasting value for the community, local economy and environment.

This includes strengthening community participation and promoting local benefit, increasing economic
outcomes for local businesses and suppliers, and embedding sustainable and regenerative practices that
protect and enhance Noosa’s environment. It also includes improving how value is measured and
demonstrated across supported events.

4.3 Actively Manage Event Impacts
Ensure the impacts of events on residents, infrastructure and the environment are well understood by event
organisers, carefully managed in alignment with “50 Shades of Green” and minimised over time.

This includes proactively managing traffic, congestion, access, safety and community disruption, reducing
environmental impacts such as waste and noise, and ensuring events are appropriate to their location, scale
and timing—particularly in high-demand and environmentally sensitive areas. A strong focus will be placed on
managing cumulative impacts over time. This includes working collaboratively with event organisers and key
stakeholders to identify and address operational issues early in the planning process.

4.4 Shape a Balanced and Noosa-Appropriate Events Portfolio
Actively curate a diverse and balanced events calendar that reflects Noosa’s character, values and capacity.

This includes supporting a mix of community, cultural, sporting and lifestyle events, creating opportunities
across different audiences and communities, and improving the dispersal of events across locations and
seasons. It also includes taking a more deliberate, portfolio-level approach to reduce pressure on high-
demand areas, like Noosa Main Beach. This may also include curating or supporting new or emerging home-
grown events.

4.5 Leverage Major Opportunities for Long-Term Benefit
Optimise the long-term value of major events and external opportunities in a way that aligns with community
expectations and environmental or locational limits and delivers lasting benefits for Noosa.

This includes leveraging opportunities such as Brisbane 2032, strengthening partnerships, growing capability,
supporting key infrastructure and attracting external investment that contributes to the long-term sustainability
of events in Noosa in alignment with the value “right event, right place, right time”.



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5.Events Portfolio Mix
5.1 A Balanced Event Portfolio
Events contribute to Noosa in different ways. Some strengthen community connection and participation, while
others support cultural expression, showcase Noosa's unique environment and lifestyle, attract visitors,
generate business activity or activate public spaces.

For this reason, Noosa considers events as part of an overall portfolio rather than as individual activities in
isolation. A successful events portfolio is not measured by the number of events delivered each year, but by
how well events collectively contribute to the Vision, Values and Guiding Principles of this Strategic
Framework.

A balanced portfolio supports a mix of event types, locations, audiences and seasons while ensuring impacts
remain proportionate to the benefits delivered and aligned with the capacity of place.

5.2 Event Categories
To support strategic planning, portfolio management and consistent assessment, events are grouped into
broad categories based on their primary purpose, intended audience and contribution to Noosa. The
categories currently recognised by Council are:

Community Events - Small
Smaller-scale activities that primarily benefit a local community, precinct or neighbourhood.
Community Events - Large
Events that strengthen participation, community connection, local identity and wellbeing across Noosa.
Destination Events
Events that showcase Noosa's environment, culture and lifestyle while attracting visitors from outside the
region and delivering broader community and business outcomes.
Business Events
Conferences, corporate gatherings, incentive programs and industry events that contribute to business activity
and visitor expenditure.
Weddings and Private Ceremonies
Private activities conducted on Council-controlled land through Council's booking and permit processes.

5.3 Funding and Permit Assessment
Event categories assist Council to understand the role an event plays within the broader portfolio and help
inform funding, support and assessment pathways. Funding and permit approvals are separate processes.
Funding assessments consider the strategic contribution an event is expected to make to Noosa's community,
environment, businesses and broader objectives. Permit assessments focus on the practical delivery of the
event, including safety, risk, compliance, location suitability and operational requirements.

Approval through one process does not guarantee approval through the other.

5.4 Event Categories and Assessment Procedure
The detailed event categories, strategic fit assessment, funding assessment principles, permit assessment
principles and event assessment pathways are contained within the Event Categories & Assessment
Procedure.
The Framework implementation is supported by the Noosa Events Management Policy and provides a
consistent approach to how events are categorised, assessed and progressed through funding and permit
pathways.



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The Event Categories & Assessment Procedure may be reviewed and updated from time to time to support
continuous improvement and implementation of this Strategic Framework.


6.Situation Analysis: Events in Noosa
Events play an important role in supporting community connection, cultural expression, local business activity
and the visitor experience across Noosa. They contribute to the social, environmental and economic vitality of
the region while helping to showcase Noosa's distinctive character, lifestyle and environment.

Events by the Numbers
Events form a significant part of community life and place activation across Noosa. In 2024/25:
   • Approximately 451 events, functions and weddings were held on Council-controlled land requiring a
        Temporary Event Permit.
   • Around 180 community-focused events were conducted across the Shire, demonstrating strong levels
        of local participation and volunteer involvement.
   • 10 Destination events generated an estimated $66 million in economic impact, with approximately $33
        million retained within the local economy.
   • Destination events spent approximately $3 million annually with local businesses and suppliers.
   • Approximately 1,500 volunteers support events each year.
   • Approximately 258 weddings were conducted on Council land, representing around 57% of all
        permitted activities.
   • Events contribute more than $100,000 annually to volunteer and community groups through
        fundraising and event partnerships.
Opportunities and Challenges
Events create significant benefits but can also place pressure on public spaces, infrastructure and community
amenity. Key challenges include traffic, parking, road closures, noise, access restrictions and environmental
impacts. These pressures are most evident in high-demand locations such as the Main Beach Precinct, where
event activity is concentrated.
Event-related road closures account for approximately 77 hours per year, including 46.5 hours associated with
community events and 30.5 hours associated with Destination events. While generally temporary, these
impacts can accumulate over time and influence community perceptions of events.
Event organisers consistently identified increasing complexity associated with traffic management,
compliance, approvals, site management and the coordination of multiple stakeholders. Industry feedback
highlighted the importance of improving certainty, streamlining processes, strengthening communication and
ensuring assessment requirements remain proportionate to the scale, complexity and risk profile of events.
A Shared Responsibility
Events in Noosa are delivered through a network of event organisers, community groups, volunteers, local
businesses, residents, visitors, venue managers and Council. The success of the events portfolio depends on
collaboration between these stakeholders and a shared commitment to delivering positive outcomes for the
community, environment and economy.
Looking Ahead
Over the next five years, Noosa's events sector will need to respond to changing community expectations,
increasing environmental considerations, future infrastructure projects and opportunities associated with
Brisbane 2032. Future works within the Main Beach Precinct, evolving sustainability expectations and
increasing demand for public spaces will require a more coordinated, balanced and evidence-based approach
to event planning, investment and management. The Noosa Events Strategic Framework responds to these
challenges by supporting a balanced events portfolio that maximises benefits while actively managing impacts
and protecting the values that make Noosa unique.



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Further detail regarding the current events portfolio, economic contribution, community benefits, impacts,
industry challenges and supporting analysis is provided in Appendix 2 – Noosa Events Portfolio Analysis & Key
Insights.


7.Council’s Role and Responsibilities
Noosa Council plays a central role in how events are planned, supported and managed across the region. This
role is not limited to funding and approving individual events, it is about ensuring that events collectively reflect
community expectations, respect place and contribute positively to Noosa over time, socially, economically
and culturally.

Council’s role can be understood across three key areas:

7.1 Strategic Leader
Council provides strategic leadership by:
    •   Setting the overall direction for events in Noosa through this Strategic Framework
    •   Aligning the events strategy with broader Council priorities and community expectations
    •   Guiding the mix of events across the region over time to ensure a balanced portfolio
This ensures that events contribute to Noosa’s long-term vision and values and maintain a strong connection
to place.

7.2 Funding Partner
Council recognises that strong partnerships, open communication, accountability and a shared commitment
to continuous improvement are essential to the successful delivery of events in Noosa Council expects
supported events to demonstrate high standards of planning, delivery and stewardship, and to contribute
positively to community, environmental and business outcomes. This includes:
    • Supporting organisers through funding, planning and delivery
    • Providing guidance and coordination in achieving council’s strategic outcomes
    • Championing highest standards of sustainability
    • Encouraging continuous improvement
    • Facilitating collaboration between Council, event organisers and key stakeholders.
    • Supporting greater certainty through coordinated planning and communication.

Council recognises that strong partnerships, open communication and mutual accountability are essential to
the successful delivery of events in Noosa.

7.3 Regulator
Noosa Council has a shared responsibility for supporting safe and well-managed events as the regulator and
manager of public land and community spaces. Council's role includes managing access to public land and
infrastructure, protecting community amenity, safeguarding environmental values, and ensuring compliance
with relevant legislation, policies and approval requirements.

The event organiser is responsible for the planning, management and delivery of the event, including public
safety, security, risk management, emergency preparedness and regulatory compliance. Event organisers are
expected to identify, assess and manage risks, maintain appropriate safety and emergency management
plans, and work collaboratively with Council, emergency services and other authorities.

Event permits are assessed by their scale, location, timing, risk profile and potential impacts on the community
and environment. Public health and safety remain the primary consideration in Council's decision-making, and
Council may withdraw support, funding or approvals where an event presents an unacceptable risk.
Sustainability Principles



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As regulator, Noosa Council supports sustainable event delivery by applying requirements proportionate to
event scale and risk, supporting event organisers to improve sustainability performance through the
Sustainable Event Guidelines and 50 Shades of Green, and encouraging continuous improvement in
environmental performance.


8.Event Support and Funding
8.1 Why Events Matter
Council supports events because they contribute to Noosa’s community, economy and identity. Events:
   • Bring people together and strengthen community life
   • Support local businesses and economic activity
   • Enhance Noosa’s appeal as a place to live and visit
At the same time, events rely on use of public spaces, infrastructure and a range of Council services. Council’s
role is to ensure that support is applied in a way that is balanced, appropriate and aligned with community
values and expectations and, within a reasonable carrying capacity of the place in which they are being held.

8.2 Funding and Investment
Noosa Council currently provides financial support to events through a range of funding and sponsorship
programs that support community, cultural, environmental, sporting and destination-related outcomes. These
programs have evolved over time to respond to different community needs, strategic priorities and event types.
Council's investment in events reflects the important contribution events make to community connection,
business activity, cultural expression, environmental stewardship and placemaking across Noosa. Funding
programs support a diverse range of activities, from locally led community events through to larger destination
events that deliver broader economic, visitation and destination outcomes.
This Strategic Framework does not replace existing funding programs, nor does it prescribe future funding
allocations or sponsorship levels. Rather, it provides the strategic context that will inform future consideration
of Council's event funding and investment approach.
As part of implementing this Framework, Council will review the alignment of event funding, sponsorship and
support programs to ensure they continue to reflect the Vision, Values, Guiding Principles and Strategic
Priorities outlined in this document. This review will be undertaken progressively through the implementation of
the Action Plan and associated policy framework.
A summary of Council's current event funding and sponsorship programs is provided in Appendix 3 –
Sponsorship and Funding Overview. Detailed program guidelines, eligibility criteria and funding arrangements
remain subject to separate Council policies, programs and annual budget processes.


8.3 Cost Recovery
Events create demand on public spaces, infrastructure and Council services, including staff time, site
preparation and compliance oversight. Cost recovery ensures these impacts are managed in a fair, transparent
and financially sustainable way.
Council’s approach is guided by its adopted Fees and Charges Schedule, which sets how fees are applied for
permits, approvals and use of public land, in line with legislative requirements.
Fees are applied on a proportionate basis, reflecting:
   • the type and purpose of the event (community, commercial or private)
   • the scale, complexity and impact of the event
   • the level of Council services and resources required
Under this approach:
   • Commercial or privately beneficial events contribute more toward the costs they generate
   • Community and not-for-profit events may receive reduced fees, recognising their social value
   • Higher-impact events contribute more toward management and restoration costs


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Cost recovery is applied alongside Council’s funding and support programs, allowing a balanced approach
between investment and contribution based on the overall value an event delivers.



9.Action Plan, Outcomes and Measures
The Action Plan, Outcomes and Measures provide a clear roadmap for implementing the Noosa Events
Strategic Framework over a five-year period.

They identify the actions to be undertaken and those responsible for their delivery, the outcomes to be
achieved, and the measures that will be used to measure progress over the next five years, ensuring events
deliver meaningful benefits for Noosa’s community, economy and environment.

The Action Plan identifies a series of high-priority implementation actions to establish the foundations for
delivery of the Framework, supported by ongoing actions that will be progressively implemented over time.

Shared Responsibility for Delivery
The successful delivery of this Framework relies on a partnership between Council, event organisers,
businesses, venue operators, volunteers and the broader community.

While Council will provide leadership, governance, coordination and support, event organisers play a critical
role in delivering successful events and achieving the outcomes of this Framework. Event organisers are
encouraged to demonstrate high standards of event planning, delivery and stewardship through responsible
event management, continuous improvement, environmental leadership, local procurement and meaningful
community engagement. Together, Council and the events industry share responsibility for continually
improving the quality, sustainability and community value of events in Noosa.

Implementation of this Action Plan is therefore a shared responsibility, with many outcomes dependent on a
strong collaboration between Council, industry and community stakeholders. Success will be achieved not
only through Council’s actions, but through the collective efforts of all those involved in planning, delivering
and supporting events across Noosa.




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 Priority 1: Improve the shared event experience
 Desired Outcome: Event organisers experience a more efficient, coordinated, transparent and certain event
 planning and delivery process, supported by stronger partnerships and communication with Council.

 Council High-Priority Actions:
 1. Establish the Events Executive Group (EEG) to oversee implementation of the Noosa Events Strategic
    Framework, provide strategic leadership, continuous improvement, governance and investment.
 2. Streamline the event approval process for supported events with an online Event Toolkit including clear
    guidelines, service standards, requirements and indicative timelines.
 3. Strengthen event relationship management through a Concierge/Account Management approach that
    provides organisers with proactive communication, timely advice and tailored support, while
    encouraging continuous improvement and high standards of event delivery.
 4. Improve Noosa Council’s online event calendar and forward planning tools to improve visibility,
    transparency and coordination of supported events, key dates and future planning activities, enabling
    better scheduling and reducing potential event clashes.
 5. Create an online event permit application portal that improves applicant visibility of requirements,
    assessment progress and key milestones.
 6. Complete an audit of event-related Council facilities and infrastructure to identify opportunities to
    improve event readiness, accessibility and operational efficiency.
 Ongoing Actions:
 Enhance the event organiser experience through improved account management, better tools, templates
 and support resources, while fostering collaboration, continuous improvement and the sharing of best
 practice across the events industry.


 Events Industry Contribution
 Event organisers contribute by working collaboratively with Council, providing feedback on processes and
 identifying opportunities to improve the event planning and delivery experience for all parties.

 Measures of Success
 1. Event organiser satisfaction and confidence in Council processes
 2. Timeliness, transparency and growing confidence in Council’s event planning and approval processes
 3. Strengthening of engagement and partnerships between Council and the events industry
 Annual Outcome Targets
 1. Year-on-year improvement in event experience
 2. Improved certainty and responsiveness across event planning and approval processes
 3. Stronger industry relationships demonstrated through regular engagement and collaboration




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 Priority 2: Maximise the Benefit of Events for the Noosa Community
 Desired Outcome: Events deliver measurable community, environmental and economic benefits that
 strengthen Noosa's identity, enhance liveability, support local businesses, and create lasting value for
 residents and visitors.

 Council High-Priority Actions:
 1. Strengthen collaboration and storytelling by working with event organisers to better communicate the
     community, environmental and economic benefits delivered through events, highlighting outcomes
     beyond visitor expenditure and economic impact.
 2. Embed sustainability and "leave better" principles into event guidelines, funding programs and
     assessment processes, enabling events to contribute to environmental stewardship, community
     wellbeing and the place-based outcomes envisaged in the Destination Management Plan.
 3. Support local businesses and community organisations to leverage event opportunities by facilitating
    connections with event organisers, supply chains, media exposure and local-buy initiatives that increase
    participation and generate broader local benefits.
 4. Encourage meaningful community participation by promoting volunteer opportunities, partnerships with
     local community groups, cultural organisations and schools, and activities that foster community pride
     and connection.
 Ongoing Actions:
 • Work with event organisers to strengthen local procurement, community participation and partnerships
    that enhance event outcomes and local benefit

 Events Industry Contribution
 Event organisers continue to deliver positive community, environmental and business outcomes through
 local participation, community partnerships, support for local businesses and responsible event
 management.

 Measures of Success
 1. Community and stakeholder benefit outcomes
 2. Local business and supplier participation
 3. Environmental and sustainability outcomes achieved through supported events

 Annual Outcome Targets
 1. Increased evidence of community benefit and participation
 2. Increased local business and supplier engagement
 3. Improved environmental performance across supported events




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 Priority 3: Actively Manage Event Impacts
 Desired Outcome: Event impacts are well understood, proactively planned for and effectively managed to
 protect community amenity and environmental values, while providing clarity, consistency and greater
 certainty for event organisers.

 Council High-Priority Actions:
 1. Strengthen implementation of the Sustainable Event Guidelines and the 50 Shades of Green Guide,
    ensuring event planning and delivery adopts a continuous improvement approach to appropriately
    address community impacts and sustainability practices, including energy, water and waste
    management, relative to the size, scale and nature of each event.
 2. Establish a consistent, proportionate and timely approach to impact assessment and mitigation
    planning, including earlier stakeholder engagement, clearer approval pathways and improved
    coordination for recurring events. Investigate opportunities for longer-term approvals or multi-year
    agreements for suitable events to provide greater certainty and reduce administrative burden.
 Ongoing Actions:
 • Work with event organisers and relevant stakeholders to investigate and implement traffic, transport and
    congestion management initiatives, particularly in high-demand locations and peak periods.
 • Strengthen monitoring, compliance, event debrief and post-event evaluation processes to support
    continuous improvement and inform future event planning and management.
 • Enhance proactive communication with residents, businesses and event organisers through forward
    event calendars, infrastructure and project updates, and early notification of event-related activities and
    planned disruptions.

 Events Industry Contribution
 Event organisers work collaboratively with Council and stakeholders to identify, manage and reduce event
 impacts while supporting positive experiences for participants, residents and visitors.

 Measures of Success
 1. Community and stakeholder perceptions of event impacts
 2. Traffic, access and operational impact outcomes
 3. Environmental and compliance performance of events

 Annual Outcome Targets
 1. Improved management of traffic, access and community impacts.
 2. Improved environmental and compliance performance across supported events.
 3. Increased confidence in the planning and management of event impacts.




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 Priority 4: Shape a Balanced and Noosa-Appropriate Events Portfolio
 Desired Outcome: A balanced event portfolio that reflects Noosa's values, community interests,
 environmental capacity and business aspirations while supporting a diverse range of event experiences
 across the Shire.

 Council High-Priority Actions:
 1. Develop an event portfolio planning approach that identifies the desired mix of event types, locations,
    seasons and audience segments, ensuring alignment with community values, environmental capacity
    and economic objectives.
 2. Review Council's event funding, sponsorship and support programs to ensure investment aligns with the
    Vision, Guiding Principles and Strategic Priorities of this Framework, and supports a balanced portfolio of
    events. This review should consider multi-year partnerships, portfolio diversity, planning certainty for
    recurring events, and appropriate transition arrangements where required.
 3. Assess the capacity of key event locations and supporting infrastructure to identify opportunities,
    constraints and future investment priorities, ensuring the sustainable distribution of events across the
    Shire.
 4. Review the value, benefits and challenges associated with wedding activity across the Shire, including its
    contribution to community, economic and destination outcomes and its impact on local amenity,
    access and environmental values.
 Ongoing Actions
 •   Monitor and evaluate the composition and performance of the event portfolio to ensure an appropriate
     balance of event types, scales, locations and seasonal distribution, and to identify gaps or emerging
     opportunities.
 •   Support the development of under-represented event categories that align with community priorities and
     strategic objectives, such as youth, arts, culture, environment, recreation and community-focused
     events.
 •   Encourage a broader geographic distribution of events across the Shire, where appropriate, by
     considering community support, infrastructure capacity, environmental suitability and place-based
     opportunities in funding and event support decisions.
 •   Use community, environmental and economic impact data to inform future portfolio decisions, ensuring
     the event calendar evolves in response to changing community expectations and destination priorities.


 Events Industry Contribution
 Event organisers contribute ideas, insights and opportunities that support a diverse, balanced and
 sustainable events calendar aligned with Noosa's character, values and capacity.

 Measures of Success
 1. Diversity and balance of the events portfolio
 2. Geographic and seasonal distribution of events
 3. Utilisation and readiness of key event locations and infrastructure

 Annual Outcome Targets
 1. Increased diversity across event categories and event experiences
 2. Greater distribution of events across locations and seasons where appropriate
 3. Improved readiness and utilisation of key event locations and infrastructure




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 Priority 5: Leverage Major Opportunities for Long-Term Benefit
 Desired Outcome: Significant events and external opportunities can deliver lasting community,
 environmental, business and infrastructure benefits for Noosa.

 Council High-Priority Actions:
 1. Develop a Brisbane 2032 Events Legacy Plan for Noosa, identifying opportunities to strengthen event
    capability, infrastructure, participation and economic outcomes and deliver important infrastructure
    legacy outcomes for the community (e.g., improved public transport connectivity).
 2. Work within the Noosa Council Olympic Games cross-council strategy to ensure that events actions and
    outcomes are included in Noosa’s overall approach to Brisbane 2032.
 Ongoing Actions:
 • Identify and pursue opportunities that strengthen Noosa's event portfolio, visitor economy and
    community outcomes through aligned major events and strategic partnerships
 • Align infrastructure and capability development with current and future event requirements, including
    opportunities arising from Brisbane 2032 and other major initiatives
 • Strengthen partnerships with regional, State and national agencies to support investment, advocacy and
    event development opportunities
 Events Industry Contribution
 Event organisers work with Council and partners to identify opportunities that strengthen event capability,
 attract investment, showcase Noosa and create lasting benefits for the community.

 Measures of Success
 1. External funding and investment attracted
 2. Strategic partnerships and collaborative initiatives established
 3. Legacy outcomes delivered for the community, economy or infrastructure

 Annual Outcome Targets
 1. Increased external funding and investment secured
 2. Increased strategic partnerships supporting event development and capability
 3. Demonstrated community, business or infrastructure legacy outcomes




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Appendix 1 – Noosa Council Planning and Governance
Framework
Figure 1 – Noosa Corporate Plan 2023-2028 Extract




Addendum – In December 2025 Noosa Council adopted the Destination Management Plan (DMP). This Plan is
positioned below the existing Strategies detailed in Figure 1. The DMP defines the community’s expectations
for how visitation and events are managed in Noosa. It sets clear direction on protecting lifestyle, environment
and place, ensuring events operate within agreed limits and contribute positively.

Noosa Events Document Hierarchy
 Document /              Description & Purpose
 Program

 Noosa Events            Provides the overarching direction for events, including their role, value and the mix
 Strategic Framework     supported over time. It sets the Vision, Guiding Principles and Strategic Priorities that guide
 2026-2031               planning, investment and decision-making at a strategic level

 Event Management        The purpose of this Policy is to establish Council's approach to the management,
 Policy                  assessment, approval and oversight of events conducted on Council-controlled land. This
                         Policy supports implementation of the Noosa Events Strategic Framework and provides the
                         framework through which events are assessed, supported, approved and managed
 Funding & Support       Council provides funding and support programs that deliver community, cultural,
 Programs                environmental and economic benefits. Programs include Major Events Sponsorship,
                         Economic Development Grants, Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), and Community
                         and Environment Grants.
 Event Categories &      Council's procedure for categorising and assessing events, including event categories,
 Assessment              assessment pathways and assessment principles.
 Procedure




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 Event Permits,                 Provide practical guidance to plan and deliver events, including applications, templates and
 Guidelines and                 requirements. They support compliant, safe and high-quality delivery, and can be updated
 Operational Tools              over time as needs change



Appendix 2 – Noosa Events Portfolio Analysis & Key
Insights
Noosa supports a diverse range of events each year, ranging from small, volunteer-led community and
commemorative events to major cultural, sporting and food events, and private functions held on
Council-controlled land.

In 2024/2025, approximately 451 events, of all types, were held on council-controlled land requiring a Council
Temporary Event Permit.

Key characteristics of the portfolio include:
    •    Destination Events (10),1 representing approximately 2% of all permitted events, played a strategic role
         in delivering broader community wellbeing, local economic outcomes, visitation and destination
         profile.
             o Combined economic impact of $66 million*
             o Spent approximately $3 million with local businesses*
         Major events closed roads in Noosa Shire for 30.5 hours across 5 days
    •    Community-focused events (180), accounted for 40% of all permitted events, demonstrating high levels
         of local ownership, participation and volunteer involvement. These events include:
              o Nippers and other SLSC Carnivals
              o Markets
              o ANZAC Day and Christmas celebrations

         Community events closed roads in Noosa Shire for 46.5 hours across 8 days.
    •    Weddings (approximately 260), were 57% of all permitted events, supporting a wide range of local
         creatives, small businesses and hospitality operators.
            o 76% of weddings were conducted in the various Groves at Main Beach
            o 70% of weddings were held on a Friday, Saturday and Sunday
            o October (40 weddings) was the busiest month

*Source Tourism and Events Qld.
    •    The genre of event by permit based on 190 events (excluding weddings) showed:
            o 30% of events were sport related with half of those utilising the beach
            o 14% were educational
            o 14% were arts or cultural related
            o 7% were corporate or team building

Main Beach Events
Main Beach is one of Noosa’s most valued and iconic community spaces, supporting recreation, wellbeing and
the visitor experience. In 2024/2025, 288 events, functions, occasions that required a permit were conducted
within the Main Beach area. The genre of events that utilised this space included:
    •    Weddings 68%
    •    Community 28%
    •    Major Tourism 2.5%


1 Transitioned from Tourism Noosa during FY25/26



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    • Corporate 1.5%
Given its significance to the current events portfolio, future infrastructure works and facility upgrades within
the Main Beach Precinct will require proactive planning and coordination to minimise disruption and maintain
event continuity where possible.




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Further Details: Appendix 1: Noosa Events – Analysis of 2025/26

    Figure 1: Noosa Permited Events by Category Type




    Figure 2: Noosa Main Beach Precinct Permited Events by Category Type




    Figure 3: Noosa Events – Full Road Closure Hours by Event Category




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Economic

•   Approx $66m in economic impact – measured by TEQ.
•   Approx 50% of spending remains in the region - $33m
•   Council major events investment $230,000 across 10 events
•   Return on Investment – Gross 279:1 Nett 140:1
•   Council provides funding to the level of 2.5% of total event income/revenue through sponsorship



Local impact

•   Events spend approx. $3m with local suppliers
•   Events contribute approx. $100,000 p.a. to volunteer groups
•   $1 from every attendee or participant from tourism events goes towards planting trees in Noosa Shire
•   18% of participants in the Noosa Triathlon are Noosa locals
•   1,500 locals volunteer across the tourism events portfolio

Other event facts
• 451 events/functions/weddings required a permit
• 258 outdoor weddings on Council land
• 80% of events had a community focus
• 11% tourism focus
• 8% corporate focus



Road Closures

•   46.5 hours community - 30.5 hours destination events




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Appendix 3 – Sponsorship and Funding Overview
Overview
Noosa Council provides support for events through a combination of funding, services and access to public
spaces. This support is designed to reflect the different roles that events play across the region — from
community-led activities that bring people together, to larger events that contribute to the broader economy
and profile of Noosa. The level and type of support provided varies depending on the nature, scale and impact
of each event, and is guided by the principles set out in this Strategy.

Types of Support
Council support for events may include a combination of financial and non-financial assistance. Financial
support is typically provided through grants or sponsorship, while non-financial support may include access to
public land, Council infrastructure, and staff coordination. In many cases, events receive a mix of both,
depending on what is required to deliver the event and the benefits it provides.

Funding Streams
Council provides funding across several event types, reflecting the mix of events supported in Noosa. These
include:
    • Major Events
       Supporting events that attract visitors and contribute to the local economy and destination profile.
    • Community Events
       Supporting locally led events that bring people together and strengthen community connection.
    • Cultural and Arts Events
       Supporting creative expression, local identity and cultural experiences.
    • Sporting Events
       Supporting participation, competition and active lifestyles across a range of scales.
    • Environmental and Place-Based Initiatives
       Supporting events and activities that contribute to environmental outcomes or a stronger connection to
       place.
Each of these funding streams has its own purpose, but all funding is guided by the same overall direction —
supporting events that are a good fit for Noosa and deliver meaningful benefit.

Over time, these events will transition to be considered based on size and scale, under the following criteria,
aligned with this new framework:

    •   Destination Event
    •   Community Large
    •   Community Small
    •   Business Events
    •   Weddings and Private Ceremonies


A Proportionate Approach to Support
Support for events is applied in a proportionate way. This means that the level of funding, services and
requirements reflects:
    • the scale of the event;
    • the type of event; and
    • the level of impact and benefit.
Smaller, community-led events are generally supported in a way that recognises their local value and capacity,
while larger or higher-impact events are expected to meet higher expectations and contribute more
significantly to the resources they require.


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Relationship to Cost Recovery
Council’s support for events operates alongside its cost recovery approach. While some events receive funding
or in-kind support, others contribute toward the costs associated with the use of public land, infrastructure
and services. The balance between support and cost recovery depends on the nature of the event, including
the level of public benefit and any private or commercial gain. This ensures that: public resources are used
responsibly; costs are shared appropriately; and a diverse mix of events can continue to be supported across
Noosa.




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Definitions
Notes: Event categories are defined in Section 5 – Events Portfolio Mix.
Event
A planned activity, gathering or organised occasion conducted on Council-controlled land that requires approval
and is delivered for community, cultural, recreational, commercial or other purposes.
Event Portfolio
The collective mix of events and approved activities occurring across Noosa over time, including their type, scale,
location and timing.
Balanced Event Portfolio
A diverse and considered mix of events that reflects Noosa's values, supports community and business
outcomes, and manages impacts on people, place and environment.
Community Benefit
The positive social, cultural, environmental or business value delivered to the Noosa community through an event
or activity.
Business Benefit
The contribution an event makes to local businesses, employment, suppliers and economic activity.
Public Value
The broader benefit created through the use of public spaces and resources, including community,
environmental, cultural and economic outcomes.
Event Impact
The positive and negative effects an event may have on the community, environment, infrastructure, public
spaces and visitor experience.
Cumulative Impact
The combined effect of multiple events or activities occurring over time within a location or across the region.
Capacity of Place
The ability of a location to accommodate activity without creating unacceptable impacts on environmental values,
infrastructure, public spaces or community amenity.
High-Demand Location
A location experiencing high levels of community, visitor or event use and competing demands for access.
Peak Periods
Times when visitation, activity levels or demand for public spaces and infrastructure are significantly increased.
Event Scale
The relative size and complexity of an event, considering factors such as attendance, duration, footprint,
operational requirements and potential impacts.
Funded Event
An event that receives financial assistance from Noosa Council through a grant, sponsorship, partnership or other
support program.
Permit-Only Event
An event or activity that proceeds through Council's approval process without receiving Council funding or
sponsorship.




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Cost Recovery
The process by which event organisers contribute towards costs associated with the use of Council-controlled
land, infrastructure, facilities and services.
Private Ceremony or Booking
A low-impact private use of public space, including weddings, elopements, memorials and other approved private
gatherings.
Destination Management Plan (DMP)
Noosa's strategic framework for managing visitation and shared experiences in a way that aligns with community
expectations, protects environmental values and supports the long-term sustainability of place.
Events Strategic Framework
The overarching strategic document (this document) that establishes the vision, values, guiding principles,
priorities and action plan for events in Noosa.
Event Management Policy
The policy framework that supports implementation of the Strategic Framework and guides the assessment,
management and oversight of events conducted on Council-controlled land




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