With an unprecedented $100 billion in infrastructure projects currently underway in Australia, the University of Melbourne is going to industry to ask how these projects can work more effectively with communities.
The Next Generation Engagement survey, launched this week, is part of a groundbreaking University of Melbourne-led research project, in partnership with industry, government and civil society. The survey marks the first vital step in understanding the challenges and knowledge gaps around how major infrastructure projects interface with communities.
“Every response in this survey is critical,” project leader, Dr Sara Bice said.
“The people working to plan, fund and deliver our infrastructure are the experts. We need their help to get a sense what the challenges are when it comes to engaging with communities, building and maintaining social license and properly managing social risk.”
The major industry groups that have partnered with the project are inviting their members to participate in the survey. Data gathered will inform the conversation in what will be the biggest consultation on the practice of engagement to date.
The survey will take participants around 15 minutes to complete and will give invaluable insights in terms of how relationships with communities affect project performance.
Dr Bice emphasized that identifying challenges is the first step in revealing the opportunities that sound, evidence-based practice can deliver.
“Although the starting point for the Next Generation Engagement Project is identifying challenges from an industry perspective, the project ultimately presents a unique opportunity to improve project performance and community outcomes. Future stages will look at these challenges from a community perspective, inviting even wider participation.”
Participants have until Friday 19 May 2017 to respond.
For the latest news on the Next Generation Research Project visit
www.blogs.unimelb.edu.au/nextgenengagement
Media contact:
Kirsty O’Connell
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