Appointment of Pirie Voices Coordinator
A new approach to community change is underway in Port Pirie — one that puts residents in the lead and brings local voices to the centre of conversation.
Pirie Voices is an initiative designed to tackle long-term social challenges by shifting power to the people who live with them every day. It aims to create practical, community-driven solutions that improve wellbeing, strengthen social connection and expand local opportunity.
The initiative is broadly supported by local organisations, with leadership from Port Pirie Regional Council and key partners including Preventive Health SA, Uniting Country SA, Workforce Australia – Local Jobs, The Country Counsellor, Nyrstar, Centacare Catholic Country SA, the Department of Human Services, Country Arts SA, and Workskil Australia.
To lead this work, Paula Backstrom has been appointed as the initiative’s first Coordinator.
Paula brings over a decade of experience across local government, the arts, and regional development. Known for her ability to build partnerships and work across sectors, Paula will support residents, organisations and service providers to co-design solutions that reflect the needs and strengths of Port Pirie.
“This is a step-change in how we address social disadvantage,” said Mayor Leon Stephens.
“It’s not about short-term fixes — it’s about supporting our community to lead and sustain the change they want to see.”
Paula will coordinate a 12-month listening and design process across the city and surrounding region, with the goal of developing a shared action plan shaped by the stories, insights and leadership of the community itself.
Initial funding of $45,000 has been committed by Council, with additional support from the State Government through Preventive Health SA’s PLACE program.
Why It Matters
Port Pirie is a resilient and close-knit community with a strong foundation to build on. Like many regional areas, it faces complex social issues — and Pirie Voices provides a new way to address them. By supporting local leadership and harnessing lived experience, the initiative aims to tackle social disadvantage and create lasting, community-led change.
Image: Paula Backstrom has been appointed as the Pirie Voices Coordinator and will drive this exciting initiative.