‘Building the economy we could have’ – A series of ideas, case studies and concepts exploring how we move to an economy that works for people and planet.
Australia’s future depends on whether we can move beyond piecemeal reforms to embrace systemic change.
Last year, we released The Economy We Could Have – a paper that looks under the bonnet of Australia’s economy: rising inequality, the erosion of the ‘fair go’, but also a story of hope. Of momentum growing across the country, and of enterprises and communities already leading the way.
The response was one of excitement, speaking to a deep desire for transformative economic change rather than the same old, tired recipes. Now, with Australia facing new economic pressures including an oil crisis, the impetus to act is greater.
So, we are doubling down. The ideas that politicians and decision makers reach for in a crisis matter. We want those ideas to be the ones that put wellbeing at the centre: dignity, purpose, participation, fairness, and nature. As a foundation, rather than an afterthought.
That’s where our new series comes in.
Building The Economy We Could Have explores the ideas, case studies and concepts that show how we get there. Right now, there are many isolated or ‘Lego wins’, the examples that show what can be done better, yet scattered and disconnected. We are turning our focus to see these as building blocks: things worth doing more of, and connecting across the country.
We’ll share examples that show another way is possible and outline the potential of wellbeing economic concepts in practice, with case studies, explainers, interviews, and of course drawing on our work in regional communities looking to build resilient and thriving communities through times of change. ‘
The series includes:
- Explainers on wellbeing economy concepts and how they are showing up in Australia
- Case studies of enterprises, communities and policy makers doing differently
- Australian history showing we have charted different approaches before
- Interviews with people bringing fresh ideas and approaches.
We are excited to uplift the work that is steadily charting the way forward, drawing on Australian’s strengths as people who back their neighbours, champion local ideas, and have a long track record of showing the world what policies that work for people and planet can look like.
This series is a starting point for deeper thinking and conversation. We’d love to hear what resonates, or what we are missing. Contact us here.