The Housing Matters Action Group (HMAG) and Ethical Fields have joined forces to launch “Building Bellingen Shire’s Capital,” a program starting with a free workshop series designed to empower locals to drive their own economic security and address pressing community needs.
The Housing Matters Action Group (HMAG), in partnership with Meaghan Burkett from Ethical Fields, is excited to announce an empowering new community initiative: Building Bellingen Shire’s Capital.
It begins with a free interactive workshop series for all community members and local organisations across the Bellingen Shire to explore practical, community-driven approaches to funding, assets, and long-term economic security.
“At a time when rising living costs, housing pressures, and infrastructure gaps are being felt more deeply than ever, this initiative helps us take control of the resources our community needs. Join us in shaping a stronger, fairer, and more self-reliant Bellingen Shire—starting with the capital right in our own backyard,” said Rose West, HMAG coordinator.
Rose said the program focuses on place-based capital—including money, funding, land, services, and other assets—and how communities can generate, govern, and manage them locally to create a lasting impact.
Participants will explore how local capital can be harnessed to address challenges like housing affordability, climate resilience, small business growth, food systems, and community equity.
“No prior experience is needed. Whether you’re leading a community group, running a local business, working in government or simply passionate about the future of Bellingen, this is your opportunity to shape how we invest in ourselves.”
The workshop dates and topics are:
· Session 1: Fundamentals of Place-Based Capital Wednesday, 30 April, 5:30–7:30 pm Learn the basics and build confidence in community capital
· Session 2: Mapping Our Capital Needs & Opportunities Wednesday, 28 May, 5:30–7:30 pm. Explore how we generate, access, and manage local capital
· Session 3: Identifying Capital Solutions to Achieve Our Goals Wednesday, 25 June, 5:30–7:30 pm Discover practical solutions to unlock community potential
Use this link for more information or to register: https://events.humanitix.com/place-based-capital-information-session-2025