Kangaroo Island Destination Management Plan 2026-2030
The Kangaroo Island Destination Management Plan 2026–2030 is a shared five-year plan to grow a high-value visitor economy that strengthens Island communities, regenerates nature, and protects the landscapes, wildlife and culture that make Kangaroo Island unique.
The Plan sets a clear direction for Kangaroo Island to evolve from an iconic nature destination to a global leader in regenerative tourism, balancing visitor growth with community wellbeing, environmental protection and long-term destination stewardship.
Why Now?
Kangaroo Island’s visitor economy brings significant benefits to the Island, but it also presents challenges that require careful planning and shared stewardship. Strong seasonal peaks can place pressure on infrastructure, services and communities, while access costs can affect competitiveness and accessibility. At the same time, Kangaroo Island has an extraordinary opportunity to build on its global reputation for nature, wildlife and conservation, grow off-peak travel and immersive experiences, and lead the way in regenerative tourism.A Snapshot
Our priorities to 2030
The Destination Management Plan is built around five strategic priorities:
Distinctive Visitor Experiences
Developing immersive, year-round nature, cultural and Island experiences that encourage visitors to stay longer, explore more and connect more deeply with Kangaroo Island.
Caring for Place
Strengthening Kangaroo Island’s position as a leader in regenerative tourism, where visitors and the tourism industry contribute positively to our environment and community.
Impactful Island Storytelling
Sharing authentic stories of Kangaroo Island, strengthening year-round destination marketing and improving the way visitors connect with information before and during their stay.
Cohesive and Collaborative Destination Stewardship
Using research, data, community insight and collaboration to guide tourism development and ensure the benefits of tourism are shared across the Island.
Island Access
Advocating for reliable, equitable and sustainable access by ferry, air, road and public transport for visitors, residents and businesses.
Turning the Plan into action
The DMP identifies priority projects and actions designed to strengthen Kangaroo Island’s visitor economy while protecting the qualities that make the Island unique. The Plan will guide collaboration between the Kangaroo Island Tourism Alliance, tourism operators, government, community and other partners through to 2030. Progress will be informed by evidence, including Kangaroo Island’s Tourism Optimisation Management Model, and the Plan will continue to evolve as opportunities and challenges emerge.
Stay involved
Destination stewardship is a shared responsibility. Industry, government, community and visitors all have a role to play in shaping a visitor economy that supports Kangaroo Island for generations to come.