What role do community groups play in affecting government policy?
I think community groups play a bigger role than many people realise. On the statutory side, I’m always, always impressed by the amount of time community groups put into submitting on plans and policies. This is a hugely important, albeit bureaucratic, process. But community groups can also apply a huge amount of pressure before the submission stage. They can influence decisions on whether a policy is needed in the first place, or they can lobby their local politician which can also be very effective. There are also loads of really practical examples of communities protecting local biodiversity values. In my experience these community groups are always in for the long haul and achieve truly amazing work.
