We’re so happy to be part of the Map of the Month initiative—a science communications project led by the University of Melbourne, in collaboration with AURIN, Melbourne Centre for Cities, Melbourne Data Analytics Platform, and Pursuit.
The goal of the project is to use maps as a tool to initiate important policy discussion within Metropolitan Melbourne. The maps and stories featured in the project are contributed by academics, community leaders, and government representatives from different areas of Melbourne. The project is made possible through the support of the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation and partnerships with the Victorian Office for Suburban Development and the Municipal Association of Victoria.
This month’s map was created by AURIN’s Flavia Barar, alongside Amanda Belton and Dr. Emily Fitzgerald, and focused on ‘bumping spaces’. ‘Bumping spaces’ are places that facilitate chance encounters, encouraging people to interact naturally simply because of close proximity. Regular encounters with familiar faces—at your yoga class, local library or favourite coffee shop—often lead to casual greetings and, eventually, meaningful conversations.
These community-building spaces play a crucial role in enhancing social capital and cohesion within neighbourhoods. By offering inclusive and welcoming environments, places like libraries and neighbourhood houses attract a diverse range of individuals, strengthening relationships and promoting resilience in the community.
The mapped data highlights the disparity of access to ‘bumping spaces’ in Melbourne. Established inner suburbs have a higher concentration of these spaces compared to newer developing outer suburbs. Ensuring equitable access to these spaces is essential for promoting social cohesion and community engagement across all areas of Melbourne.
Read about this month’s map in more detail on Pursuit.