Professionals intellectualise our issues resulting in theories..

We live them, making it Knowledge…

Our Projects

  • Lived Experience Matters Pty Ltd established The Social Sustainability Project to design bottom up socially sustainable community development solutions which seek to end the commoditisation of the people “down here” and enable them to rise to enjoy a better quality of life and in turn enhancing the financial wellbeing of all and the walkability of the local community. Our vision is to Return the Village to the Community.

  • To our knowledge there is no other concept like nurture. Nurture stores are a solid example of sustainable development in action. Fruit Veg and Flowers with old stock repurposed into fresh bab foods, smoothie mixes Jam’s spreads and pies. Subscriptions models will enable smart subscribers to reduce their cost of living significantly with around a 40% reduction in their weekly food budget. We see these stores as being a community hub and will have a community area on site where with much lobbying we intend to have social work services available for by from a lived experience workforce. All families suffer systemic failings, the ndis and my aged care are examples of social issues almost everyone needs support with at times.

    We intend to be a certified indigenous business and our flag ship store will be in Redfern / Waterloo NSW Australia.

  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.Nurture stays are attached to the nurture stores enabling hosted stays which do not impact residential housing stock. These are also an innovation in Airbnb stays and management. People want sustainability. These stays enable us to showcase Sydney for its social sustainability by enabling people to stay and experience our vision for the return of the village to the community.

  • Cleaning Airbnb’s are perfect for those “down here’. who are also house proud (contrary to a current affair type stories which smear public housing tenants). By providing laundry and cleaning services for other Airbnb operators they too can support local social sustainability and proudly use that as a buy in for their guests. All while using LOCAL people improving our LOCAL economy for all of us.

Stay informed of legislative change via our

“Bullshit Metre”

Weekly updates on every legislative action made on our behalf…

Our Campaigns

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    Misidentification of Women (Domestic Violence)

    The Social Sustainability Project’s latest campaign powerfully exposes the alarming trend of women being arrested in disproportionately high numbers on domestic violence charges, challenging prevailing narratives that often overlook the complex contexts behind these instances. By amplifying lived experiences and presenting data-driven insights, the campaign seeks to unravel systemic biases within the justice system that penalise women who are frequently acting in self-defence or under coercive circumstances. This innovative approach not only calls for urgent policy reforms but also emphasises the need for community support structures that address the root causes of domestic violence rather than perpetuating cycles of criminalisation and marginalisation.

  • A woman wearing a face mask and backpack holding a protest sign that reads, 'Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,' amid other protesters in an urban setting.

    Abuse of Power ( Coercive Governing)

    Coercive government practices in Australia undermine the fundamental rights and freedoms of its citizens, often operating under the guise of national security or public order. These practices include surveillance without due process, unjustified detention, and the suppression of dissenting voices, disproportionately affecting marginalised communities. Our campaign at Lived Experience Matters is dedicated to exposing these abuses, amplifying the voices of those impacted, and advocating for transparent, accountable governance. By shedding light on these issues, we aim to foster a society where power is exercised responsibly and citizens are empowered rather than controlled.

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    Down Here

    Our campaign aims to dismantle long-standing misconceptions surrounding those on the margins—those living "Down Here"—by sharing authentic stories and significant insights drawn directly from lived experiences. We challenge outdated stereotypes by highlighting the diverse abilities and contributions of individuals often overlooked, fostering a deeper understanding and acceptance within the community. Through innovative storytelling and evidence-based information, we seek to create a more inclusive society where people are recognised for their unique strengths rather than defined by misconceptions.

    “Down Here” is an innovative community-led project based in Sydney that focuses on creating inclusive and accessible public spaces for people whose experiences have been marginalised. Rather than viewing difference through a deficit or medical lens, “Down Here” centres lived experience to foster social sustainability by promoting engagement, participation, and empowerment within local communities. The initiative prioritises collaboration with those directly affected, ensuring their voices shape the environment and programming. By embedding inclusive design principles and fostering a culture of mutual respect, “Down Here” contributes to thriving communities where diversity is genuinely valued and embraced.

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Social sustainability is the architecture of a society where people can live, grow, belong, and thrive across generations. It’s more than a policy concept — it’s a living practice that shapes how communities function, support each other, and remain resilient over time.

Community Wellbeing & Belonging

Creating environments where every person — especially those from the margins — feels seen, valued, included, and safe. It’s the return of the village: real relationships, trust, and shared responsibility.

Equity, Access & Fair Participation

Ensuring that everyone has pathways to participate in community life, decision-making, the economy, and cultural expression. This includes reducing structural barriers and responding to diverse needs, including neurodivergence.

Economic Inclusion & Local Prosperity

Supporting local economies, micro-enterprises, social enterprises, and community-owned models so that prosperity circulates within community rather than extracting from it.

Cultural Continuity & Knowledge Preservation

Honouring Indigenous knowledge, local traditions, lived experience, and community histories. Social sustainability protects identity, stories, art, memory, language, and shared meaning.

Human Connection & Care Systems

Building the everyday systems that allow people to live well: - food security

- housing stability

- community spaces

- shared childcare

- mutual support

- crisis-safe environments

- places to gather, talk, heal, and learn

Long-Term Collective Resilience

Creating communities that can adapt and grow through social, economic, and environmental change. Sustainability is about tomorrow as much as today.

Ethical Governance & Trust

Transparent, accountable, community-centred leadership. Decision-making that prioritises the common good and protects the vulnerable.

Social, Emotional & Cultural Health

Supporting the mental, emotional, spiritual, and cultural wellbeing of people — not just the absence of harm, but the presence of meaningful lives.

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What Social Sustainability Means for Our Community

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