Sitzler Katherine worker’s accommodation consultation

 

Client

Sitzler

Service

Community consultation

True North Strategic Communication led an independent consultation program for Sitzler’s proposal to build a 256 person worker’s accommodation facility at 50 Landsdowne Road in Katherine to meet local industry needs.

Sitzler identified that there was a critical shortage of modern and safe accommodation for workers in Katherine, not only for its own projects but across the construction, agriculture and Defence industries.

The location of the proposed worker’s accommodation meant that Sitzler needed to submit an Exceptional Development Permit (EDP) as the planned use of the land for worker’s accommodation did not comply with the traditional pathway of a Development Application.

The application required a 28-day exhibition period where submissions could be received and would go to a public hearing with the NT Planning Commission. Sitzler acknowledged the need for additional engagement to understand and address community concerns and engaged True North to lead a comprehensive consultation program.

True North led an independent consultation program for 4 weeks which ran alongside the 28-day public exhibition period. Our involvement in the project included developing a comprehensive consultation strategy which identified stakeholder groups, values and sensitivities, engaging with key stakeholders in Katherine, providing strategic advice and developing an independent, detailed consultation report at the end of the project.

Challenges

This was a complex consultation program as there was a high level of outrage and misinformation among residents in the immediate area. The consultation approach required deep understanding and consideration of the values and issues affecting the local community in Katherine.

 
 

Outcomes

  • True North took a personal approach to engaging with residents and took the time to listen to understand concerns and address misinformation
  • In total there were 99 interactions with stakeholders and residents during consultation covering 53 stakeholder groups and 21 nearby residents
  • True North developed a detailed consultation report that balanced stakeholder values, issues and views and demonstrated the effort made to consult with the local community
  • The Katherine worker’s accommodation proposal was approved by the NT Planning Commission in early 2024.
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