7.2 Trust in government
Trust is commonly viewed as a proxy indicator of social capital, and a high level of trust is
considered a factor that can enhance economic growth and social well-being. Indicators of
trust inform about the quality of people’s interactions with others. The local community was
surveyed and results indicated that the community believed that it is government’s role to
protect the public from environmental health risks. While a very small sector of the community
indicated it thought that the fulfillment of this responsibility was excellent, the majority
indicated it considered it adequate. In addition, people indicated they do not worry until
government has alerted them to specific environmental health problems.
Relevant report for trust in government
• Narangba Industrial Estate Health Risk Perception Survey, 2007