This comes after Batemans Bay’s Edgewater Gardens won a gold medal for inclusive tourism and bronze for self-contained accommodation at last year’s South Coast Tourism Awards.

LGNSW President Keith Rhoades said the increasing demand for inclusive tourism and recreational opportunities was proving to be a significant economic driver for a wide range of communities across NSW.

“Twenty per cent of the population have a disability and of these, 88 per cent take a holiday each year,” Councillor Rhoades said.

“Visitors with disabilities are usually accompanied by carers, friends and family, which makes inclusive tourism a huge section of the travel and recreation market.

“It’s already valued at around $8 billion per year, with plenty of room for further growth.”

Clr Rhoades said many councils were already conscious of the economic potential of the inclusive tourism market, which extends beyond people with disabilities to ageing Australians and international visitors.

“Remember that 3.7 million Australians were aged over 65 in 2015, and the baby boomers who helped revolutionise tourism, travel and recreation will soon be joined by the next generation of older travellers,” he said.

“Getting older isn’t what it used to be. Most retirees have not only retained their sense of adventure, but now have the time and financial security to really get out there and enjoy life.”

Clr Rhoades said the forum was designed to bring industry players together, including councils, to share best practice in offering inclusive tourism and recreational experiences.

Forum goers will hear from Trip Advisor, Destination NSW, the NSW Business Chamber and Local Government NSW while also having the opportunity to network with local industry colleagues.

“There is a wealth of small changes that can increase both accessibility and profits, and the upcoming forum is designed to help unlock these for everyone,” Clr Rhoades said.

“There’s also a focus on providing the best customer service to older people and visitors with a disability as well as their families and carers.

“I’d encourage anyone who sees the opportunity to grow their business and local economy through inclusive tourism to come along to the forum, which will be held at:

Anyone interested in attending the free forum can register online here at but numbers are limited, so early registration is advised.