In July 2024 the Australian Government released the National Guidelines for Community Engagement and Benefits for Electricity Transmission Projects (the guidelines). These guidelines recognise that community participation is essential for the effective roll out of renewable energy projects and were developed to promote the importance of building social licence with communities. While the principles outlined in the guidelines are focused on delivering community engagement for transmissions projects in Australia, they can also be adapted to a range of other infrastructure projects.
Following are six principles from the guidelines to help you deliver better practice engagement with communities:
1. Engage at the right time
Start engagement early and maintain it throughout the project, adapting the methods, frequency and timing to meet community needs
2. Ensure engagement is diverse, equitable and inclusive
Learn about your community and offer a variety of communication channels and engagement methods, prioritising face-to-face and addressing barriers to participation.
3. Be responsive to community input and enable participation
Recognise local knowledge, make it easy for the community to give feedback and ensure it feels valued and heard.
4. Engage with First Nations people and be responsive to their input and influence
Build relationship with First Nations peoples and respect their history, culture and ongoing connection to Country. Ensure communication is transparent and accessible and use resources developed by First Nations peoples and organisations.
5. Partner with the community
Harness local knowledge and connections, foster community knowledge, support local councils and organisations and invest in quality engagement and internal training.
6. Provide accurate, transparent and accessible information.
Be honest and transparent and use trust local voices. Flag risks and disruptions and address false information proactively.
The National Guidelines for Community Engagement and Benefits for Electricity Transmission Projects were developed via consultation with community, farmer, First Nations and industry groups and government bodies.
To learn more about community engagement for renewable energy infrastructure and view the complete guidelines visit: https://www.dcceew.gov.au/energy/renewable/community-engagement
