Hello to a new AI engagement tool for community feedback

Published on 24 April 2024

Maribyrnong City Council is trialling a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool as part of our suite of tools to engage with our community.

Posters are being erected across multiple locations in the municipality inviting residents to chat using the new two-way communication platform, Hello LampPost, which uses AI to support live interactions straight from your phone.

The new tool is being launched specifically to support the review of the Community, Asset and Financial plans, and the development of a new Council plan - key strategic documents that inform the future direction of Council and determine service delivery.

Residents can participate in this simple, on-the-go AI tool by scanning the QR code on the yellow signs, which will activate the chat. There are also options to engage in Vietnamese, Hindi, Chinese and Arabic.

This first conversation is designed to understand how residents would like to be involved in this significant piece of engagement, including the tools and methods they would like us to use to encourage broad participation. We’ll be further updating the chat around June and through until the end of the year to ensure everyone who wants to, has an opportunity to engage and provide feedback across all the plans.

Maribyrnong City Council Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam, said because these documents set out the strategic direction for our municipality, it’s important they reflect wide-ranging feedback from our community and stakeholders.

“Hello LampPost is another way for us to share information with you, collect your feedback including sentiment and opinion, while also pointing to further information, resources and opportunities to engage with us.

“There is no app to download, no account fees or registrations required - you can be part of the conversation, as and when it suits you,” she said.

Hello LampPost will complement in person and digital engagement via Your City Your Voice.

We’ll also be drawing on the Maribyrnong Matters Panel, a group of almost 250 residents who have expressed an interest in being part of Council’s decision-making. New members are welcome. Sign up at https://www.yourcityyourvoice.com.au/community-voice-panel

For more information about the development of the Community Vision, Council, Asset and Financial plans and Council Plan, visit yourcityyourvoice.com.au/communityplan

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