3 Trends That May Shape Community Engagement in 2026
As we move into 2026, the landscape for community engagement continues to evolve. The start of a new year is always a good time to look ahead. What challenges and opportunities might shape how we engage communities in 2026? And how these shifts might affect your organisation this year?
We came across two thought-provoking articles highlighting what 2026 might bring for community engagement. Here are a few key trends that we think are worth paying attention to.
Importance of Feeling Safe
id consulting raised the issue of perceptions of safety and we think it’s going to influence attitudes and behaviours more, in 2026. We think there will be more community feedback and prioritisation on policing and security, creation of safe public spaces, and protection of our own homes and property.
Everyone of us knows that digital safety is still a significant concern and mistrust is high. Scams via text and email are commonplace. At Conversation Co, we’re finding that community members aren’t answering their phones if they don’t already know the caller’s number. Engagement activities that offer financial incentives can attract ineligible individuals making false declarations (pretending to meet recruitment criteria).
Continuing Changes in Aged Care and Disability Sector
id consulting mentioned the changing landscape of legislation, policies and funding arrangements.
This year the Baby Boomer generation will be between 62 and 80 years old. In most communities there is a demographic ‘bulge’ of residents in this age range, going through major life transitions – reducing their paid employment, retirement, downsizing their homes or relocating, seeking new activities. Accurate and timely information is ‘golden’ for elderly people, and for those that care for them.
We think that the needs of this life stage will become more prominent in our engagement feedback and will continue to challenge the allocation of precious public funding in community infrastructure, health and wellbeing and recreation.
Artificial Intelligence Uncertainty
The HLB Mann Judd article talks about the positives of enhanced productivity but also cautions against negative impacts on jobs, and trust, ethics and accountability.
It’s hard to know which online content can be trusted with a proliferation of AI-generated images, video and online content. As engagement professionals we need to advise our participants and stakeholders how/if we are using AI and more importantly, demonstrate the genuine invitation to participate in engagement.
Sources:
https://www.accountingtimes.com.au/economy/6-business-trends-to-watch-out-for-in-2026-hlb-mann-judd
https://www.id.com.au/insights/articles/australia-in-2025-what-changed