In July 2023, Queensland Hydro identified a need for strategic stakeholder engagement and communications support across its two major projects, the proposed $14.2 billion-dollar Borumba Pumped Hydro Project and the proposed $12+ billion-dollar Pioneer-Burdekin Pumped Hydro Project.
BBS was engaged to work closely with Queensland Hydro’s Head of Communications and Engagement and broader team to provide strategic engagement support across its corporate program and two major pumped hydro projects. Working across 2023 and 2024, BBS delivered a range of strategic communications and stakeholder engagement activities, including:
Engagement Toolkit
BBS supported the development of tools for the team’s Engagement Toolkit. The toolkit provided a uniform approach to planning and implementation of Queensland Hydro’s extensive engagement activities, providing a foundation for efficient and effective delivery.
Key items included procedures for community visitation and doorknocking, enquiries and complaints management, dispute resolution, managing damage claims, issues management tracking and holding site tours, media/social media protocols, workforce behaviour, key templates and more.
Stakeholder Relationship Database
BBS provided direction and input into the creation of Queensland Hydro’s new purpose-built Stakeholder Relationship Database via the Boreal-is platform. Drawing on the BBS team’s extensive experience in the delivery of major infrastructure projects, including successful and efficient engagement activity reporting and critical record-keeping of stakeholder interactions, BBS built in tried and tested industry benchmarks, while keeping the system user-friendly allowed for team member buy-in, ensuring the system is properly utilised, dependable and accurate information can be input and reported on.
Community Benefits Framework
BBS supported the creation of Queensland Hydro’s Community Benefits Framework, outlining its approach to planning and delivering benefits for communities in which they operate. Our work included end-to-end delivery of the project, including co-design with key stakeholders and facilitation of engagement activities. BBS went on to develop the community engagement strategy supporting the launch of the draft Framework, which included consultation on the vision, shared values, and strategic priorities.
