Facilitating multi-sector dialogue for natural resource management: Examples of rural governance in two Queensland regions

The definitions and interpretations of rurality and rural governance in Australia are being expanded through the current natural resource management (NRM) regional arrangements. Part of these expanding definitions is the notion of inclusive NRM decision-making in rural communities through multi-sector dialogue (e.g. between primary producers, local government, conservation, Indigenous and other community interests). Drawing on triangulated case study data collected over a 12-month period using multiple methods, this paper examines the functioning of multi-sector dialogue in two rural Queensland regional NRM bodies. Although subject to the same stakeholder representation, NRM plan and regional investment strategy accreditation requirements, the two organisations differed markedly in their philosophies and approaches towards multi-sector dialogue. Comparing the two approaches, the authors highlight the innovative solutions that each offers for more inclusive rural governance. Suggestions for improving multi-sector dialogue at the regional scale include strengthening the role of regional group’s collectives to provide for greater knowledge exchange between groups. Regional bodies also need to be encouraged, through collective forums, to access education and training programs that promote the adoption of innovations for facilitating sustainable NRM practices.