The success of Rio+10 will depend to a large extent on the process that takes place prior to the summit. It is therefore necessary to evolve a preparatory process on a broad participatory basis involving all stakeholders, not only the government and official institutions, but also the private sector, the media and civil society. This process has already started on a national and regional level. Our meeting here in Canberra will provide the opportunity to exchange information and views on the global level, to coordinate our planning, extend our networks and improve our capacity to push forward the official preparatory process.