Bringing Community Engagement to Life in Brisbane’s CBD

ESG Alignment

Social responsibility is at the heart of this initiative. By showcasing the Ann Street CBD water main renewal project at Urban Utilities’ Community in Practice event, Diona demonstrated how community engagement can be brought to life in practical and meaningful ways. The 3D model fosters understanding and connection, empowering the public to engage with complex infrastructure works. By identifying sensitive stakeholders early and taking steps to reduce disruption, the team shows a genuine commitment to putting people first and creating positive community outcomes.

Strong governance underpins this approach. Diona’s community and stakeholder risk mapping process ensures risks are clearly identified, managed, and communicated across the project team. The 3D model supports transparency and accountability, making engagement strategies visible and measurable. This method also highlights the value of cross-functional collaboration, with delivery teams aligned under a shared commitment to responsible planning, open communication, and continuous improvement.

SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation; SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities; SDG 4: Quality Education; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

Diona’s Queensland Community Team recently showcased the Ann Street CBD water main renewal works at Urban Utilities‘ quarterly Community in Practice meeting highlighting the critical role of community engagement in inner-city projects.

A standout feature of the presentation was a 3D model of the project alignment, built by Jesse Ottaway, Community Relations Officer. This interactive model brought the project to life, providing a clear and engaging visual representation of the works, their potential impacts, and opportunities for positive community outcomes. It also served as a powerful tool to demonstrate Diona’s community and stakeholder risk mapping approach, which identifies sensitive customers, key risks, mitigations, and engagement needs. By integrating this insight into project planning, the team ensures alignment across delivery teams while proactively minimising disruption to the community.

Joanne Hugo, Manager Community Relations at Urban Utilities praised the initiative, “Credit to Diona’s Community Relations Team for their innovative 3D approach in providing a community lens to infrastructure planning in Brisbane’s CBD. Special recognition to Jesse Ottaway for his dedication and attention to detail in creating a model that vividly illustrates the complex landscape where the community lives, works, and plays.”

Well done to the Community and Stakeholder Engagement Team for their collaborative efforts in preparing and delivering this this impactful presentation.