A Consensus to accept a proposal exists when everyone in a group has one of these four views:
 
 1. Agree with the proposal completely
 2. Agree with the proposal with reservations
 3. Neither agree nor disagree with the proposal
 4. Disagree with the proposal but are prepared to allow it to proceed

Consensus is a state of shared acceptance rather than unanimous wholehearted support. People may, for example, seek to have their disagreement noted but allow a proposal to proceed. This is still consensus.
 
 A Consensus does not exist where one or more members in a group holds the following view:
 
 • Disagree with the proposal and believe it ought not to proceed
 
There are a number of ways of responding where there is not consensus.

Some groups turn to voting. Others seek to first discover the essence of the person or persons concern and discover if there are changes that are possible to enable a consensus to be formed.

Developing a consensus is often aided if people who disagree are clear that their views have been heard and understood, even if the rest of the group does not share their views.

Seeking consensus is an active and engaged group process. It is a shared responsibility - requiring participants to actively seek common ground.

From the Australian Greens Members' Handbook: