To become a Cittaslow, Goolwa completed a self-assessment against a series of goals using the following categories:
* Environment (air, water or land pollution, waste management and recycling)* Infrastructure (open space, seating, public conveniences, access to town centre)
* Quality of Urban Fabric (historic buildings, gardens, parks)
* Local Produce and Products (local producers and suppliers of food and crafts, healthy eating, the arts)
* Hospitality (facilities for tourists, community life)
* Awareness and Education (communications, local involvement)
In assessing itself against a set of criteria, a town must score over 50% in each section.
Along with the self-assessment report and supporting documentation, Goolwa submitted an application for membership and recognition as a Cittaslow. Goolwa was the first non-European town to apply for acceptance as a Cittaslow.
Goolwa welcomed a delegation from the International Cittaslow Committee in March 2007. During their visit, the Delegation accepted Goolwa's application for membership and awarded the town the Cittaslow flag. read more...
Goolwa has been asked to lead the establishment of an Australian Cittaslow network. Katoomba in the Blue Mountains of NSW submitted its application for membership and became the second town to be awarded Cittaslow status in Australia. Katoomba will be working with Goolwa to establish the Australian Cittaslow network.
Any town in Australia with a population of less than 50,000 people and cares about the quality of life for its people, is invited to consider becoming Cittaslow. Certification will be done by the Australian Cittaslow network. A joining fee (that covers certification) and an annual membership fee (amount will depend on size of town) will apply.