A multifaceted, cultural approach to community engagement: case studies in urban water management

Abstract

‘Water in The Landscape’, a community cultural development programme, focused on urban water management in Western Sydney (Australia). This case study was influenced by research which found provision of expert information alone increases community resistance to engagement, and called for methods using visual–practical elements to provoke people to question their values and attitudes, thus preparing them to absorb new information. Our programme used strategies, at a large scale (15 cultural projects), over two years, supported by local deliberative forums, and online information and dialogue facilities. We present outcomes of the cultural projects’ component of the programme, assessed in partnership between local government and University of Western Sydney.

Keywords:

• Water management
• Environmental awareness
• Urban conservation

Acknowledgements

This project was funded by grant monies from Sydney Water. Many thanks to Helen Bassett for help with editing the manuscript.