Our Vision
The Phillip Island and San Remo Visitor Economy Strategy 2035 Growing Tourism was adopted by Council and key stakeholders in August 2016.
Recognising that tourism is one of the main economic drivers of Phillip Island and San Remo, the State Government together with Bass Coast Shire Council, Regional Development Victoria, Visit Victoria, Destination Phillip Island and Phillip Island Nature Parks developed a 20-year Visitor Economy Strategy for the Island to help ensure the long-term viability and sustainability of this important sector.
In 2018-19, tourism was estimated to be worth $529 million to the region’s economy (in direct and indirect Gross Regional Product), representing 43.9 per cent of the region’s economy. Tourism generated employment of approximately 5,900 people or 46.8 per cent of the region’s employment (direct and indirect jobs).
The impact of the Bushfires and the start of the Pandemic, delivered significant impacts to the 2019-2020 year, with Gross Regional Product dropping by 29% to $379m representing 30.5% of the region's economy. Tourism generated was impacted by 19% drop to 4800 perople or 37.8% of the region's emploment. (direct and indirect jobs)
Cowes to Stony Point Car Ferry Project
October 2021
The State Government have provided $200k to finalise the investigation into the Cowes Jetty area for a potential Car Ferry. This project will be lead by the Bass Coast Shire Counil.
May 2019
Bass Coast Shire Council has included in the draft 2019/20 Budget support to deliver a study for a Car Ferry service at the Cowes Jetty. Following the adoption of the Budget the State Government will be approached to provide support funds to the study.
August 2018
Please refer to the following page which provides the Council decision at the 18th April 2018 meeting on the Project.
http://www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/Business/Cowes_to_Stony_Point_Car_Ferry
If you wish to discuss this project with the Board please do not hesitate to contact us.
This Project is supported by Destination Phillip Island, Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism Board, Destination Gippsland, Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC), tourism route alliances Go Beyond Melbourne, Great Southern Touring Route and Sydney Melbourne Touring. It is also recognised in State Priorities for further development of the Visitor Economy.