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YMAC Project Timeline

Communications/Way of Working (“WoW”) protocol

Working together to develop a protocol goes a long way towards enabling a positive relationship between the Prescribed Body Corporate (PBC) and the Renewable Energy Developer (RED).

This document sets out how the parties will work together over the course of the project life cycle and is the outcome of respectful and meaningful communication between PBCs and REDs. It’s often concurrent with stages 5 and 6.

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Important notes about this timeline

Terms of Use & Disclaimer apply throughout this YMAC Renewable Energy Guide and all related materials

Establishing the “WoW’ protocol

PBCs and REDs work together to establish a jointly designed and agreed, culturally appropriate Communications / ‘Way of Working’ protocol. It can be a stand-alone document, or contained within a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) or Statement of Intent (SoI).
It includes:
  • the identification and appointment of engagement coordinators within each party, and assigned roles and clear responsibilities;
  • a meeting schedule, project monitoring and agreement review dates;
  • preparation for what can be done now, and how gaps will be addressed following each review;
  • a process for conflict or dispute resolution;
  • an agreement for how announcements will be made; and
  • a community benefits statement.
It’s important to take into consideration the capacity and resourcing of the PBC to:
  • engage with the RED,
  • gain independent expert advice, and
  • share information with Common Law Holders to prevent delays in decision-making.

Culturally appropriate processes

Information sharing is a priority because it enables decision-making and prevents delays. Robust discussion is to be expected within the context of culturally appropriate processes that abide by the traditional Lore and customs, in addition to the native title law and governance requirements of the PBC. Each PBC is unique and what is culturally appropriate can vary greatly between groups. Free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC) depends upon a process without coercion, intimidation, or manipulation.

Documentation and regular review

  • Timely, accurate, understandable information about the nature, design, construction, impact, and ongoing life of renewable energy projects on their Country must be provided to the PBC (as well as the relevant Common Law Holders at key points) throughout the project. Importantly, this must include full disclosure of all available options.
  • Processes and outcomes must be documented along with regular review at agreed intervals, particularly when new information comes to light. Sharing this with the PBC is an effective way to achieve FPIC at every stage throughout the process and keep the project on track.
  • The success of the project must be measured against sustainability pillars and economic and social milestones.
YMAC
Important notes about this timeline

Terms of Use & Disclaimer apply throughout this YMAC Renewable Energy Guide and all related materials

Important notes about this timeline

YMAC’s Renewable Energy Guide has been developed for use by Prescribed Bodies Corporate (PBCs), Traditional Owners, Renewable Energy Developers (REDs), government and industry.

It is designed as a ‘big picture’ framework for renewable energy projects. Its intention is to support a best practice approach by all parties involved in a project. 

All projects are different, and the Project Timeline is not intended to be a perfect fit for all projects. That is, for any project, stages may occur or commence at different times or not be required. Some stages are linear, and others may occur, in whole or in part, concurrently. Each stage incorporates considerations for other stages, as relevant to a project.

The Project Timeline is a GUIDE ONLY.