Planning Approval Community Engagement Support

⁠⁠⁠Overview

The High Speed Rail Authority (HSRA) is seeking to procure specialist advisers across a range of functions to support planning approvals community engagement activities required to be delivered as part of the Development Phase.

The Supplier(s) will provide nominated resources to work as integrated members of the HSRA Corporate Affairs, Communication and Engagement Team.

Scope

The Planning Approval engagement program will establish the capability required to plan, coordinate and deliver engagement across the Sydney to Newcastle corridor during the Development Phase.

Key Activities

The engagement program will support the Authority to achieve the following key activities:

• Provide timely, accurate and accessible information about the project and the planning approval process
• Build understanding within the community of the Development Phase
• Establish trusted relationships with communities, councils, government agencies, landowners, businesses and other stakeholders
• Gather local knowledge and stakeholder feedback to inform design, technical investigations, environmental assessment and impact mitigation
• Identify emerging issues early
• Coordinate engagement activities with the design, planning, environment, property and technical teams
• Prepare stakeholders and communities for formal consultation associated with the Scoping Report and Environmental Impact Statement
• Maintain clear records of engagement, commitments, issues, feedback and project responses
• Support a coordinated and consistent presence across metropolitan and regional locations
• Support any other activities that may benefit the engagement program or HSRA throughout the Development Phase

Key Deliverables

Key deliverables will include, but not be limited to:

• Supporting the development and delivery of community and stakeholder engagement activities across allocated regions
• Building trusted relationships with communities, local councils, industry, government agencies and strategic partners
• Delivering engagement programs that support early engagement, planning approvals, property acquisition, and early investigation works during the Development Phase
• Identifying, managing, and resolving complex stakeholder and community issues and risks, as well as identifying emerging opportunities
• Working within an integrated project team to deliver positive project outcomes

Purpose

The engagement program will help the Authority identify community and stakeholder issues early, consult with councils and other agencies, provide clear and consistent project information, document engagement outcomes and ensure feedback is provided to the project's design, planning, environment and technical teams. This will assist the Authority to meet its statutory consultation obligations and demonstrate how community and stakeholder views have been considered throughout project development.

Contract Terms and Conditions

• The arrangement will be for up to a 24-month engagement, not extending beyond 30 June 2028
• Set hourly rates will apply for each role
• The Contract will include an extension option of up to 6 months at the sole discretion of HSRA

Enquiries

• Contact: Austin Adera
• Email: HSRA.Tenders@Grosvenor.com.au