Use the Engagement Methods Tool to find the right tool for your community and stakeholder engagement project.
Public Hearings are a well-established engagement method often used in government, planning, and policy processes. They offer a formalised space for individuals, organisations, and interest groups to voice support, concerns, or objections to a proposal in a way that is documented and considered in decision-making. Typically facilitated by an independent chairperson or panel, Public Hearings […]
Town Hall Meetings are public forums where community members gather to hear from decision-makers, ask questions, and provide feedback on policies, projects, or local issues. Traditionally held in large halls or community spaces, they have evolved to include hybrid and virtual formats. They often feature brief presentations followed by open Q&A sessions or breakout conversations. […]
A Referendum is a formal, structured process that enables eligible voters to make a binding decision on a specific issue — typically by casting a “yes” or “no” vote. Most commonly used in constitutional or high-level policy matters, referenda are administered by electoral commissions and involve strict legal and procedural frameworks. In a local government […]
Individualised letters sent to affected or interested community members and stakeholders.
A structured group of community or stakeholder representatives that meet regularly and operate under a Terms of Reference. Can vary from members providing their own feedback or ideas, to members acting as a conduit between the broader community and organisation.
Advertisements paid for in print, broadcast or online mediums. Can be used to promote projects, engagement activities or to meet legal obligations.
Community engagement or project teams go door-to-door to liaise with affected residents.
A small group discussion hosted by a facilitator about a focussed topic.
A meeting organised by either the organisation or community with presentations and questions asked by the crowd.
Widely publicised telephone or email hotline that and provides one-to-one responses to community questions or complaints.
Presentations and discussions with community or stakeholder groups. Can vary widely from informing to gathering feedback, ideas or options.
Staffed or unstaffed displays of information, options, drafts or final decisions which are made available in a public place.
Formal written submissions which must be made in line with government regulations.
A program to educate the community about a topic, project or proposition. Education campaigns can be designed to raise awareness, generate understanding or support behaviour change.
