At a time when many people are questioning how communities can become more resilient, connected and self-reliant, a new online discussion series is inviting people across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand to come together and share ideas for a stronger local future.
The New Economy Network Australia (NENA) Localisation Hub has launched a monthly series called Localisation Sharing Circles, bringing together people interested in community resilience, local economies, transition initiatives and new ways of thinking about how communities can thrive in uncertain times.
The series is being hosted in partnership with Transition Australia, Local Futures and the Degrowth Network.
Organisers say the circles are intended to be warm, informal and collaborative spaces where people can listen, share experiences, reflect together and build relationships with others who care about strengthening local communities.
The first session, Is now the time for localisation?, was held online on 20 May from 7pm to 8.30pm (AEST). It explored growing concerns about fragile global supply chains, economic instability and ecological pressures, while asking whether communities are beginning to rethink what genuine resilience looks like.
Participants were invited to discuss what they are seeing in their own towns and regions and how local initiatives, from food production and community support networks to local business and sharing economies, might become part of a broader movement for stronger and more connected communities.
Future sessions will continue exploring some of the deeper emotional and social challenges facing communities today.
A June gathering titled Staying grounded and “bouncing forward” will look at how people and communities can remain connected and resilient during times of disruption, uncertainty and social stress.
In July, the conversation will turn to the growing challenge of division and political polarisation. The session, Dealing with polarisation and disagreeing respectfully, will explore how communities can maintain relationships and trust even when people hold very different views and experiences.
The themes are likely to resonate strongly across the Hawkesbury, where recent years have highlighted both the vulnerability and strength of local communities through floods, bushfires, housing pressures and ongoing conversations about sustainability, preparedness and local resilience.
Organisers say the circles are open to anyone ,whether actively involved in community projects or simply curious about how communities can become more connected, adaptable and supportive in changing times.
Each session will include short presentations and facilitated conversations, while leaving plenty of room for people to connect with one another and share ideas in a supportive environment.
Further information and registration details are available through the New Economy Network Australia Localisation Hub https://www.neweconomy.org.au/
The Gazette thanks reader Merle Lester for bringing this story to our attention.
