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From time to time, we commission the Western Research Institute at Charles Sturt University to do research which helps us better understand the expectations and concerns of residents living near our operations in the Lithgow Region.
In 2005, as in previous years, hundreds of residents were randomly selected from Lithgow, Portland, Wallerawang, Cullen Bullen, Lidsdale, Hartley, Little Hartley, Hartley Vale, Good Forest, Rydal, Sodwalls, Marrangaroo, South Bowenfels and Mount Lambie to participate in a telephone survey.
The responses helped Delta formulate its community relations plan and tailor its support programs to areas of greatest local need.
In 2007, focus group research was conducted to guide the establishment of the Western Region Community Consultative Forum.
In 2008, a telephone survey is planned to gain a sense of any changes to perceptions when compared with the findings of the 2005 community survey.
Summary of 2005 community survey findings
Ø 91% of respondents had heard of Delta Electricity.
Ø A majority of respondents feel positively about Delta Electricity.
Ø The main source of information about Delta is newspapers, which is consistent with results from previous years.
Ø Community perception of Delta was strong.
Ø About two thirds of respondents could recall Delta’s sponsorship of community events. The two most widely recalled sponsorships were those of sporting teams and schools.
Ø Respondents identified environmental and employment programs as the most important areas of the community for Delta involvement.
Ø While 82% of respondents had no concerns about Delta’s operations in the local area, the main concerns of the remainder were stack emissions and water usage and pollution.
Ø Respondents indicated that the most important environmental initiatives for Delta involvement in are the rehabilitation and maintenance of creeks and dams and waste processing programs.
Ø Overall respondents appreciated the contribution of Delta to the community and believed Delta was a responsible citizen of the Lithgow area. |