Linkwest: Staying in place

About the learning community

This learning community brings together organisations across Western Australia committed to creating stronger, healthier and more connected communities through place-based, community-led approaches.

Led by Linkwest, the learning community supports not-for-profit and local government-run Neighbourhood and Community Resource Centres at the heart of regional and metropolitan communities.

Focused on the staying in place initiative—an innovative approach helping people age well in their communities—the learning community aims to build capacity around social enterprise, encourage shared learning, and amplify what works. Through collaboration, storytelling, and collective exploration, members will document tools, resources, and reflections that can guide other organisations considering a social enterprise model.

This initiative supports the organisations already delivering ‘staying in place’, creating a space where learning, growth, and innovation are shared for the benefit of all.

About the convenor

This learning community is convened by Linkwest, the peak body representing Neighbourhood and Community Resource Centres in Western Australia. With over 40 years of experience in facilitating networks, building sector capacity, and advocating for asset-based community development, Linkwest is a trusted leader in supporting community-led work.

Linkwest is part of a national network of over 1,000 similar centres, supported by the Australian Neighbourhood Houses and Centres Association (ANHCA), which promotes the sector’s contributions to health, social cohesion, and economic outcomes. Linkwest continues to champion the vital role that locally-led centres play in building thriving communities.

How will this learning community work?

The learning community will connect organisations actively engaged in staying in place through online opportunities.

• Online community of practice sessions will run from April 2025 to March 2026, offering a structured space for learning, sharing experiences, and discussing social enterprise approaches.
• Support from sector experts, including Impact Seed and the WA Social Enterprise Council, will help participants explore and implement social enterprise models.
• Small grants from Linkwest will support organisations to document their journeys through case studies, learning journals, and video blogs—capturing lessons learned and valuable resources.

Together, the community will co-create knowledge and practical tools to strengthen community-centred approaches across the state.

How to get involved

There are several ways individuals and organisations can contribute to and benefit from this learning community:

• Participate in the online community of practice sessions—express your interest or offer expertise by contacting jane.harwood@linkwest.asn.au
• Access more information about the staying in place initiative by visiting the Linkwest website or emailing office@linkwest.asn.au