In Australia, social enterprises are driving economic growth, fostering inclusive employment, and addressing local challenges. The 2022 report, Business for Good – The Size and Economic Contribution of Social Enterprise in Australia, highlights key statistics that show the impact of these enterprises nationwide:
But how do these national trends relate to Mallacoota, a small and remote Victorian town of approximately 1,183 people? And what role does The Wilderness Collective play in shaping a sustainable, self-sufficient future for this coastal community?
Remote towns like Mallacoota often struggle with professional isolation, limited career opportunities, and unreliable digital infrastructure. The Wilderness Collective is actively addressing these challenges by offering a co-working space with high-speed internet and a welcoming environment for local entrepreneurs, freelancers, students and remote workers.
With 32.7% of employed individuals working less than 20 hours per week and the nearest TAFE or university is 2-3 hours away, this shared workspace fosters collaboration, supports productivity, and ensures that residents have the resources to build sustainable careers without leaving town.
Education and skills development are critical for the long-term success of any small community. The Wilderness Collective regularly organizes workshops, mentoring programs, and study sessions to help locals enhance their skills and explore new career paths. These initiatives are vital for bridging the education gap that exists in remote areas, ensuring that Mallacoota residents have access to learning opportunities that would otherwise be difficult to obtain.
Economic diversification is essential for the survival of small communities that traditionally rely on seasonal tourism. The Wilderness Collective supports local entrepreneurs and business ventures, helping create sustainable income.
Additionally, The Wilderness Collective supports the Social Enterprise Schools (SES) program in partnership with Mallacoota P-12 College and ACRE. This initiative empowers students to develop and launch their own social enterprises, teaching them valuable business and problem-solving skills while fostering a sense of community impact. Through this program, students create products and services that address local challenges, with profits often supporting environmental and social causes such as koala conservation.
By fostering a strong local economy through collaborative working spaces, education, and enterprise development, the Wilderness Collective aligns with the national social enterprise movement—proving that even small towns like Mallacoota can thrive when community-driven initiatives take the lead.
The Future of Social Enterprise in Mallacoota
The statistics from the Business for Good report make it clear: social enterprises play a crucial role in building stronger, more resilient communities. The Wilderness Collective is a local example of how co-working, knowledge, and enterprise can transform a remote town’s future.
As Mallacoota continues to adapt and grow, The Wilderness Collective remains committed to providing the spaces, skills, and support needed for a thriving, self-sufficient community.
We are a charity helping Mallacoota thrive. Your support empowers people, builds independence, and sustains our town’s future. Join us.
The Wilderness Collective
56 Maurice Avenue Mallacoota
0487 639 955
