Cross-cultural (mis) Communication in a Regional Forest Agreement Process

Lloyd D¹*

1. Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia

This study examines the qualitative responses of indigenous informants, identified as having been consulted as part of the South East Queensland Regional Forest Agreement Process, to the consultation experience, their aspirations and reflections on outcomes. Using the informants own words the researchers suggest that informants felt they did not have sufficient capacity to participate effectively in western-based planning systems which the researchers attributed to the differing aspirations and worldviews, or schema, between management agencies and indigenous communities. Suggestions as to more effective processes for community engagement are offered.

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