Let's talk
about Social Infrastructure
How we talk
about Social Infrastructure
Social infrastructure refers to the shared places and spaces that create opportunities for people to connect, build trust and work together every day.
From local cafés and sports clubs to parks and community centres – these physical places and spaces form the foundation for social capital to grow.
They enable everyday connection and become critical support hubs in times of crisis.
Read the Social Infrastructure descriptor
Why measuring
Social Infrastructure
matters
If we don’t measure it, we can’t value it.
Measuring social infrastructure matters to everyone who uses or helps shape the places and spaces that keep communities connected, supported and resilient. This includes governments, communities and all decision-makers.
Understanding social infrastructure density levels helps build equitable and thriving neighbourhoods across Australian communities.
Measuring social infrastructure shines a light on the places that power community connection.
Resilient Ready CEO
What we measure
Identifying the
places and spaces
that matter most
When it comes to social infrastructure, we measure the location and spread of the physical places and spaces that support social connection.
These fall into four categories:
- Community places – such as schools, libraries, sports clubs and community centres.
- Open spaces – such as parks, dog parks, playgrounds and outdoor basketball courts.
- Social businesses – such as cafés, pubs, gyms, chemists, hairdressers and caravan parks.
- Places of culture & faith – such as sacred sites, churches, mosques and synagogues.
How we measure Social Infrastructure
3 steps to measuring
Social Infrastructure
1. MAP PLACES AND SPACES
We map locations of social infrastructure in each SA1 neighbourhood – areas of around 200 to 800 residents across metro, regional and remote communities.
2. CALCULATE DENSITY
We calculate the places and spaces in each social infrastructure category, and overall to create a neighbourhood-level density score.
3. OVERLAY SOCIAL CAPITAL
We compare density with bridging ties to reveal gaps and strengths, and point to where investment can build more connected, resilient communities.
Mapping Tool
Making Social
Infrastructure visible
Sociabli brings together national data sources and world-leading research to measure social infrastructure.
This enables us to:
- Understand where community connections occur
- Identify areas that need equitable investment
- Build stronger, more connected communities
Measuring social infrastructure helps us understand which shared places and spaces matter most, which is good for everyone.
Professor Daniel Aldrich
Global expert in disaster resilience
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