In today's evolving and globalised world, mining companies are being pressured to move beyond compliance towards long-term sustainability and sustainable development. Companies are expected to engage' communities and measure the success of these engagements without a clear understanding of how' to do this. This move, away from compliance, develops more of a focus on sustainability and community' social responsibility rather than corporate social responsibility. This shift leads to the development of world-class projects that provide sustainable development for people, reduce the incidence of costly delays, and promote good global citizenship for companies. The process of engaging' communities in mining project design and development leads to sustainable development, a stronger license to operate, and a reduction in social and political risk. To create this mutually beneficial relationship between communities and companies, communities must be engaged' in the project development and risk assessment processes as early as possible, preferably during the exploration or the concept phases. How to create this engagement' and manage this risk will be discussed.