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.

Noticing what’s around

Notice what is already happening in your place. People often enter place-based work through relationships and local connections, not formal job pathways. Paying attention to where people gather, share and support one another can help you see where you might connect.

Reflect on:

who is doing work that sparks your interest

what local programs, networks or learning opportunities exist

where your skills or lived experience might sit alongside what is already happening.

Small step

Look around your community – online or in person – and note 3 groups, activities or people who are already active. Notice what they’re doing and where you feel a sense of connection.

Go deeper

Scan your community Facebook group or local noticeboard to see what activities, conversations or opportunities are showing up. Notice which ones catch your attention.

Remote Jobs – Job Seekers (National Indigenous Australians Agency) shows how pathways are navigated in remote communities, including the role of local organisations, employers and community connectors. It can help you see how opportunities emerge and who helps make them possible.

Giving Guide 2025 (Australian Communities Foundation) highlights community organisations and local initiatives across Australia. Browsing the guide can help you notice the kinds of work, priorities and community efforts already active in different places.

Return to 'Starting where I am'

Explore the pathway