Hong Kong should set rules of public engagement

For an observer with a strong interest in the future of Hong Kong's democratic reform, Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying's policy address was interesting. He presented his vision and aims but the missing link was a commitment to develop opportunities for greater public engagement in policymaking.

While Leung pledged to achieve universal suffrage and explore consultation options on the election methods of the chief executive in 2017 and the Legislative Council in 2016, he didn't set the wheels in motion, and that was a missed opportunity.

I would like to have seen moves towards a community consultation charter that would drive engagement in the years to come.

At a local council in Melbourne, Australia where I am deputy mayor, policy platforms go hand in hand with community consultation. We consult on everything, from the annual budget and the four-year council plan to various social and economic policies.

Residents have a direct say in the council's direction and provide feedback in a variety of ways, from e-mail messages to written submissions and public presentations.

Community and stakeholder engagement is increasingly recognised as a key element in successful public administration and transparent governance, as it results in better outcomes. The Hong Kong government needs to increase consultation opportunities and ensure that the methods of engagement are in line with community expectations.