Pathways into place-based work

This map shows different ways people contribute to place-based work – individually and collectively. It helps you orient yourself in the work, based on where you are right now. You can start anywhere. Follow what feels familiar, or explore other ways of getting involved. Click a pathway or practice point to explore further.

Don’t know where to start? Visit the landing pages for Collective pathways and Individual pathways to get a sense for the different parts of the map.

Pathways Map - Key

This map shows different ways people contribute to place-based work - individually and collectively - and where those forms of work connect.

Colours

Green - Individual pathways

Red - Collective pathways

Pathways

Each colour contains three pathways.

Pathways represent different ways of contributing, not stages or levels.

Practice points

Each circle represents a practice within a pathway.

Select a highlighted practice point to explore reflections, activities and resources.

You can visit practices in any order and return to them at any time.

Overlaps

The blue highlighted areas show where individual and collective pathways connect.

These highlight shared practices that influence both personal contribution and the wider conditions for place-based work.

Overlaps are shared ground, not additional steps.

How to use the map

There is no start or end.

Begin wherever feels most relevant to you.

Explore one pathway or move between several.

The map is designed for exploration rather than a fixed sequence.

Honouring what matters in place

Take time to notice what matters in this place – the priorities people speak about, the responsibilities they carry and the ways care and effort are shared. Consider how your values and motivations sit alongside what is already important here.

Reflect on:

what values, histories or responsibilities connect you to this place

which local strengths, traditions or practices you want to honour and carry forward

how your contribution can support local leadership and existing ways of working.

Small step

Look for one example of how people work together in your community – this might be neighbours organising a clean-up, volunteers running a local event, a cultural gathering, or people sharing information and support online. Notice what stands out and whether it draws you in.

Go deeper

Co-Design Hub (Victorian Government) shares practical ways to involve people in decisions and work alongside community. It can help you see how shared decision-making and collaboration happen in local settings.

Culture and Governance (Australian Indigenous Governance Institute, 2023) outlines community-led approaches grounded in culture, connection and shared responsibility. It offers insight into how leadership and decision-making are guided by local knowledge and relationships.

Return to 'Contributing close to home'

Explore the pathway