A unique approach to community engagement: a GasFields Queensland Commission perspective

Abstract

The Queensland coal seam gas (CSG) industry provides a unique and valuable case study on coexistence and community engagement. The introduction of a new industry sector in the traditionally agricultural landscape, and its rapid expansion, created friction in the communities within which it operated. At the core of the Queensland Government’s response to the significant landholder and community concerns about the gas industry was the establishment of the GasFields Commission as an independent statutory body. The purpose of the Commission is to manage and improve the sustainable coexistence of landholders, regional communities and the onshore gas industry in Queensland. The Commission is not alone in this mission, but it is unique in being able to operate at ‘arm’s length’ from government to facilitate better stakeholder relationships, review the effectiveness of government entities in implementing regulatory frameworks and provide advice to government and stakeholders on coexistence matters and leading practice. The GasFields Commission operates as part of a bigger ecosystem of government regulators, local governments, judicial and other dispute resolution bodies, gas companies, peaks and advocacy groups, all undertaking community engagement. By adapting its communications and engagement approach to changing stakeholder needs as the CSG industry continues to mature over time and working collaboratively with other entities, the Commission has played, and continues to play, an important role in improving sustainable coexistence and continues to support Queensland’s CSG and agricultural sectors; two world-leading and important industry sectors that together drive thriving regional communities in Queensland.