Our recent Wheelton Family Lecture for Inspiring Social Change highlighted the urgent need for an economic shift to systems that places people and the planet at the centre of all decision-making. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this very special event.
Keynote speaker Dr Katherine Trebeck explored one of the most vital conversations of our time: the need to shift towards a wellbeing economy, an approach that places people and the planet at the heart of economic decision-making. Misha Ketchell, Editor at The Conversation, facilitated an engaging and thought provoking Q&A session.
The wellbeing economy model challenges us to reimagine what progress can and should look like. Instead of prioritising profit alone, a wellbeing economy values the strength of our communities, the sustainability of our environment, and the fairness and dignity with which people are treated. At its core, it is about economic justice, transforming current systems to better serve both people and planet.
In the latest edition of eConnect, the Foundation’s program manager Stephen Torsi writes further on economic justice, and we share the video from the event. Our feature article highlights the important work of Banksia Gardens and how for the past 40 years they have provided essential programs and services to become the centre of community life and wellbeing for Broadmeadows and surrounding suburbs.
As a community foundation in Greater Melbourne, we are working with our partners, funders, and communities to support place-based initiatives and contribute to the growing momentum advocating for a wellbeing economy.
We look forward to continuing this important conversation and sharing more about our work on economic justice and community wellbeing.
As part of our commitment to Reconciliation, the Foundation’s staff joined the Yoorrook Justice Commission Walk to Parliament on 18 June. To learn more, please visit yoorrookjusticecommission.org.au.
Peter Walton Chief Executive Officer