Shaping and Fuelling Change Report

A new national report, Shaping & Fuelling Change, examines the role of philanthropy in social enterprise. The report calls for a shift, towards longer-term and more flexible approaches that support systems change.

The report was co-produced with the social enterprise sector and led by May Miller-Dawkins, bringing together insights from interviews, focus groups and case studies across the country, drawing on more than 20 years of sector development. It highlights how philanthropy, while a relatively small part of overall funding, has played a critical role in building shared infrastructure, supporting key moments in the sector, and piloting approaches taken up by government.

Challenges are also identified including short funding cycles, underinvestment in shared infrastructure, and gaps in support for regional and First Nations-led initiatives.

The report offers practical recommendations that include greater investment in shared infrastructure, strengthening trust-based relationships, and recognising First Nations governance and community-led decision-making.