Brookfield Multiplex is committed to maintaining open, meaningful consultation with the communities in which we operate. As a result, community engagement and consultation is built into the planning process for all of our projects, in order to ensure they achieve positive social, economic and environmental sustainability outcomes. A community engagement and consultation plan is established for each development project, to provide relevant interest groups, stakeholders and government agencies with the opportunity to be involved in the development process. Community feedback and understanding is achieved through a balance of door knocking campaigns, one-on-one meetings and workshops, community information and feedback sessions, community information suites, websites and distribution of information materials, including newsletters.
Brookfield Multiplex also supports long term research into social sustainability and has in place a three year agreement with Murdoch University to promote research into sustainable landscapes, community development, governance and accessibility. Brookfield Multiplex also believes that training and education is critical in the sustainability area and is supporting the development of an innovative, industry led, education and training program with the University of Sydney and UNE Partnership.
Vale, Western Australia
Vale in Western Australia is a 537 hectare award winning masterplanned residential project developed by Brookfield Multiplex. The project is an excellent example of the application of Brookfield Multiplex’s community development approach. The Community development approach at Vale has focused on the natural environment and landscape of the community’s location. The approach promotes a stewardship model that generates community involvement, awareness and appreciation of the environment.
Quality of life features revolve around the local landscape, the local school and the village centre assisted by an advanced community intranet system. Community development initiatives include; youth development programs, bi-annual resident community days to welcome new residents, community evenings, gardening workshops and the establishment of a community garden, workshops on green living and the establishment of a community art program.
Vale aims to create a community that will contribute to the economy for the long term and incorporates an affordable housing area on the urban fringe with social equity being achieved through ensuring diversity in housing and land types. The community also aims to build a “sense of place” and respect for the area’s heritage through public art and a heritage trail.
Brookfield Multiplex is aiming to empower the local community to manage Vale’s bush land, wetland and conservation areas, and in turn provide a platform to enrich other aspects of community life. The Vale project began by engaging all relevant stakeholders and continues to include all of those who can contribute to its future.