Here’s your first clue — plus the latest AI research, national standards and global engagement insights.

This edition of Beyond Engagement explores the developments shaping community and stakeholder engagement — from new national standards and emerging AI practice to community resilience, digital engagement and global perspectives. Discover the latest research, opportunities and conversations relevant to engagement professionals across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.

GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES ON CITIZEN PARTICIPATION AND TRUST

The OECD Innovative Citizen Participation Network meets this October alongside the Global Forum on Building Trust & Reinforcing Democracy. For engagement professionals, it’s an opportunity to connect with international thinking on community engagement, trust and democratic decision-making.

WHY CIVIL PREPAREDNESS MATTERS FOR ENGAGEMENT

A new Parliamentary inquiry is examining how Australia can strengthen national civil preparedness and resilience. For engagement professionals, it raises important questions about community involvement, communicating complex risks and building the trust and relationships needed before a crisis occurs.

NEW NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARD STRENGTHENS ENGAGEMENT

The new National Environmental Standard (Community Engagement) 2026 reflects several principles Engagement Institute advocated for — including engaging early, reducing barriers and ensuring community input informs decisions.

ENGAGEMENT MEETS AI: NEW BENCHMARKING STUDY

The new Engagement Meets AI 2026 Benchmarking Study reveals how AI is being used across the engagement profession. With 80% of respondents already using AI at least sometimes, the findings explore how adoption, capability and governance are evolving.

BUILDING TRUST THROUGH DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT

Engagement Institute is supporting the 2026 Social Media for Gov Summit, bringing an engagement lens to conversations about AI, misinformation, audience trust and community engagement. Members can also access a special rate to attend in person or virtually.

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