Today we spotlight intergenerational equity.
It is my pleasure to introduce the first panel discussion of the day: ‘If we build it will they stay?’
This diverse panel includes a 16-year-old high school student, a departmental secretary, and the CEO of Australia’s leading database of verified Indigenous businesses.
I have been asked why EG is sponsoring today’s Summit.
For an infomercial and to evangelise about a cause and a charity we support, the Little Big Foundation
If we really want to be responsible for resilient communities, combatting loneliness and pursuing mental well-being is everyone in this room’s business.
Research insights a few years ago from the KPMG/Groundswell Foundation study underline:
· Loneliness is a public health issue;
· Loneliness is associated with damaging social behaviours – drug use, gambling, smoking, risk-taking, sexual risk-taking, problematic social media use and bullying, etc.
· Money is not being invested in prevention – there are few organisation putting interventions in place to tackle loneliness in the way the Little BIG Foundation does.
At the Flour Mill, Summer Hill, for example, Little Big hosts:
· 60 events a month.
· Most people who use the facilities do not come from within the development.
· More than 50 volunteers
· I’ve heard people say: “I’ve rented nine times in Sydney. This is the first time I feel at home”
This idea of community building is hugely relevant to the Build to Rent sector.
If we really want to build resilient communities, it is more than bricks and mortar.
It starts from little ideas, initiatives, from which thriving ideas come.
All developments should include post-completion creation and curation of the space to ensure a vibrant and socially sustainable neighbourhood that extends beyond the physical development.
Think Little Big and Giants will follow.
https://littlebigfoundation.org
