Business Case for the SunShine CoaSt airport Master Plan

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Sunshine Coast Airport (SCA) appointed Three Plus in May 2006 to devise and implement a high level
public participation program for the Preliminary Draft Master Plan (PDMP). Between June and August, a
robust methodology was employed to ensure transparent and inclusive consultation and an effective,
two-way communication process.
The aim of the public participation program was to:
• Ensure the community was aware of the PDMP;
• Inform the community about the key components and development options of the PDMP;
• Provide a range of opportunities for community feedback and input into PDMP;
• Collect and process community feedback and deliver comments to the project team for
examination and information for the final Master Plan Report.
Three Plus was requested by SCA to provide a communication and consultation process that upheld the
philosophy:
To inform interested parties of the Master Plan process, seek their comments on impacts of
airport operation and incorporate these comments where appropriate into the preliminary draft
of the Master Plan.
From the outset, community input was sought to inform the development of the PDMP. A
communication plan was prepared and a variety of communication tools were developed. The
consultation period began on June 15 and concluded on August 14, 2006. This date was also the
deadline for public submissions.
Community feedback mechanisms included email, fax, website feedback form, information flyer form,
letters and public meetings. Many people also registered their feedback using proformas as supplied by
various interest and community groups. In addition, a database was developed using a web-based
software program, Consultation Manager, that enabled Three Plus to track and report inquiries, issues
and team responses across all project interfaces, thus minimising risk while enhancing transparency
and accountability. Project information was also available on the website as was a copy of the Master
Plan.
Communication activities included community and industry group forums, static information displays,
public meetings, direct mail letters, discussions with key stakeholders and information flyers.
SCA Manager Peter Pallot visited and talked to ten separate community and industry groups, held
“meet the people” sessions with a display at four separate shopping centres and addressed 150
community members at public forums at the airport.
SUNSHINE COAST AIRPORT
MASTER PLAN SEPTEMBER 2007
B-2