Principles of participatory practice

In 2001 an Australian research consultancy conducted a national survey to inquire into the meaning of participation for individuals who had experience in participatory approaches to research, evaluation and learning. Thirty-three telephone interviews were held with participants from the three tiers of government as well as community, academic and small business sectors. The core business activities of participants included primary industries, social services, environmental management and moral campaigns. The survey results told a fascinating story about the emergence, valuation and application of participatory approaches in Australia. Three generic principles were identified: equity, transparency and inclusion. They were proposed as core to a generally held idea as to how to recognise "participatory practices" at work and as being necessary for authentic participation to manifest in any change strategy. The consultants compiled the information into a report, which was returned to survey participants. Having the benefit now of five years of application in a variety of contracts, these principles are discussed both as a model and as a case study. The paper concludes with a brief reflection on the practical implications of participatory practices that use realise these principles.