Emails, social websites, newspapers, newsletters, word-of-mouth, advertisements and public notices are common ways that the Government communicates with the community. However, no one method should be relied upon solely. Many different communication methods can be effective, depending on the geographic area, the purpose and who you want to target. Suggestions include: bulk mail outs local and major newspapers childcare/school newsletters niche publications displays in community and networks of interest neighbourhood centres/houses personalised invitations doctor surgeries, hospitals and calls community health centres posters in shop windows and email networks presentation at meetings (parents face-to-face and friends, service provider find local champions or relevant meetings, progress associations, service providers to assist service clubs) flyers public notices through committees and radio advertisements and community organisations broadcasts Agency intranets TV news shows Internet and websites Service Tasmania letter/newsletter drops word of mouth via third parties. Email is often an easy and preferred way of communication. However, it is important to be aware that households that are without a computer or Internet access may be excluded from opportunities to engage. Also it is not uncommon for emails to be unintentionally deleted or left unread. Communication planning A perceived lack of communication from the Government to the community about engagement opportunities is a significant issue and challenge. Communities can feel that there is often not enough engagement or publicity for engagement opportunities. To address this a communication plan must be developed to outline the: clear messages about the reason for engagement; the target audience (stakeholder analysis); and effective communication channels. More than one channel of communication can be used. Depending on the project and legislative requirements, this may include a mix of public notices, emailing networks,
Emails, social websites, newspapers, newsletters, word-of-mouth, advertisements and public notices are common ways that the Government communicates with the community. However, no one method should be relied upon solely. Many different communication methods can be effective, depending on the geographic area, the purpose and who you want to target. Suggestions include: bulk mail outs childcare/school newsletters displays in community and neighbourhood centres/houses doctor surgeries, hospitals and community health centres and email networks face-to-face find local champions or relevant service providers to assist flyers through committees and community organisations Agency intranets Internet and websites letter/newsletter drops local and major newspapers niche publications networks of interest personalised invitations calls posters in shop windows presentation at meetings (parents and friends, service provider meetings, progress associations, service clubs) public notices radio advertisements and broadcasts TV news shows Service Tasmania word of mouth via third parties. Email is often an easy and preferred way of communication. However, it is important to be aware that households that are without a computer or Internet access may be excluded from opportunities to engage. Also it is not uncommon for emails to be unintentionally deleted or left unread. Communication planning A perceived lack of communication from the Government to the community about engagement opportunities is a significant issue and challenge. Communities can feel that there is often not enough engagement or publicity for engagement opportunities. To address this a communication plan must be developed to outline the: clear messages about the reason for engagement; the target audience (stakeholder analysis); and effective communication channels. More than one channel of communication can be used. Depending on the project and legislative requirements, this may include a mix of public notices, emailing networks,
Tas_Government_Framework_Community_Engagement_Revised_2014.docx