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 collective and individual pathway pages to get a sense of 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.

Keeping balance and belonging

Contributing close to home can be rewarding, but it can also blur boundaries. When community, family and work overlap, it is easy to take on too much.

Staying balanced means noticing your limits and finding rhythms that support both you and the people around you.

Reflect on:

what helps you stay connected to home, family or community while contributing locally

where clearer boundaries or shared responsibility could support you

what parts of this work could be shared so it remains sustainable for everyone.

Small step

Choose one small way to keep your contribution sustainable – such as sharing a task, setting a regular time to help or letting others know what you can and cannot take on.

Go deeper

Mental Health Resources (Healthdirect) provides information and support for looking after your mental health and wellbeing. It can help you think about your wellbeing as you balance contributing locally with work, family and everyday life.

Building Relationships and Trust mini guide (Office for Youth, 2024) shares practical approaches to building trust through clear communication, respectful boundaries and being realistic about what you can offer. It can help you reflect on how to maintain positive relationships while balancing your own needs and commitments.

Look after your wellbeing as a supporter (Beyond Blue) shares simple ways to stay grounded when you support others, whether formally or informally.

Return to 'Contributing close to home'

Explore the pathway