NENA began from a simple observation. That the economy isn't working for most people, communities or the planet. And while there's no shortage of ideas about how to change it, those ideas are mostly developing in separate silos. Brilliant thinkers and doers are already reimagining how things could work, but we could make so much more impact together from the grassroots up, and networking across the silos.
Rather than advocating for one model or framework, NENA brings new economies together. As a member-owned cooperative trusted to lead Australia's national conversation on new economies since 2015, NENA provides the backing, network and resources for members and the broader community to work on the challenges that matter to them.
Members work together in ‘Hubs’ - small, focused groups exploring solutions for challenges like food, health and housing, economic literacy, systems change, and storytelling. With NENA’s 10-year legacy and reputation for cross-pollinating between the silos of thought and research, members can meet and collaborate with like-minded people and the broader community to create real change.
Our Vision
NENA’s vision is a regenerative, localised, democratic economy that serves all Australians and respects planetary boundaries
NENA’s role is to accelerate this transition, supporting local communities and enterprises to adopt and scale practical, alternative economic models
The future economy is already being built. NENA is one of the many hands shaping a fairer and more equitable economy in this emerging economic movement
Our Purpose
Fairness
The economy should serve people and the planet, not just profit.
Decisions are guided by long-term prosperity for all, not short-term gain for a few
Openness
Different perspectives, skills and lived experiences are welcome
Challenging ideas is part of our learning
Hope with Honesty
Systemic challenges are acknowledged without denial or drama
Change is approached with optimism and seeing what is possible
Working together
Progress happens through collaboration, not competition
Collective effort creates stronger outcomes than individual
Real-world impact
Ideas must connect to real places, real sectors and real communities
Clarity defining challenges before action is foundational
Governance and actions model the principles being advanced
Our Cooperative Model
As a non-distributing cooperative, NENA reinvests all resources into achieving its mission rather than distributing profits. Membership is open to individuals and organisations who share NENA’s values and actively contribute to its work.
This model ensures that NENA’s direction and resources are determined collectively by members, in line with the Co-operatives National Law (CNL) and international cooperative principles of:
- Voluntary and open membership;
- Democratic member control;
- Member economic participation;
- Autonomy and independence;
- Education, training, and information;
- Cooperation among cooperatives; and
- Concern for community.