New approaches to AI infrastructure, disaster recovery, First Nations education, planning and community engagement.

In this edition of Beyond Engagement, explore the latest developments shaping engagement practice: new national approaches to disaster recovery and planning; the growth of AI infrastructure; First Nations voices shaping education policy; and our latest advocacy for stronger community engagement.

SEPTEMBER ADVOCACY UPDATE
WITH MARION SHORT

From AI and data centres to environmental reporting, planning and social licence, our September Advocacy Update covers where we’re taking the profession’s voice to decision-makers — and the policy developments engagement professionals should have on their radar.

NEW AI INFRASTRUCTURE STANDARDS PUT ENGAGEMENT ON THE AGENDA

The Australian Government is seeking feedback on proposed national standards for large data centres, including requirements for meaningful community engagement. For practitioners, it raises important questions about local influence, community benefit and engagement around emerging infrastructure.

FIRST NATIONS VOICES HELP SHAPE NEW EDUCATION POLICY

The Australian Government is seeking feedback on its new First Nations Education Policy. Building on earlier engagement, the current consultation gives learners, families, educators and communities another opportunity to influence the Policy before it is finalised.

REVISED DISASTER RECOVERY PRINCIPLES PUT COMMUNITIES AT THE CENTRE

The Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience has released revised National Principles for Disaster Recovery, strengthening the focus on community-centred recovery, trust, inclusion and two-way communication. See what the changes mean for engagement practice.

NSW STATEWIDE COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION PLAN NOW IN EFFECT

The new statewide Plan introduces a consistent framework for planning engagement across NSW, with greater focus on early, accessible and meaningful engagement. See what the changes mean for practitioners working with communities on planning decisions.

OUR SUBMISSION CALLS FOR STRONGER ENGAGEMENT IN NATIONAL CAPITAL PLANNING

Our Hume Circle submission calls for earlier, clearer and more place-based community engagement in National Capital planning. We’ve outlined practical recommendations to strengthen local influence, demonstrate how community input informs decisions and build relationships over time.

RETAIN THE SPECTRUM. STRENGTHEN THE GUIDANCE.

We’ve provided our final position on the IAP2 Spectrum Evolution Project. Our position is simple: retain the current Spectrum, strengthen its Purpose Statement and develop practical guidance to help practitioners use it well. Thank you to everyone who contributed their time, experience and care to the process.

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SEPTEMBER ADVOCACY UPDATE WITH MARION SHORT