What is “Controversial” in Community Engagement?

In 2025, engagement professionals are navigating increasingly complex ground. From climate adaptation projects to housing reforms and new digital tools, the issues we work on are often described as controversial.

But what do we really mean when we say an engagement process—or the subject matter itself—is controversial? And how should practitioners approach these situations with integrity, transparency, and courage?

Andrew Coulson explores these questions in his recent article, unpacking the dynamics of controversy in community engagement and offering fresh insights for practitioners across Australasia.

👉 Read the full article here.