Social Enterprise Australia: Strategy Update
Social enterprise is a key but underused tool to do this.
Many people don’t know what a social enterprise is or how to get involved, and better systems are needed to help more social enterprises reach their potential.
Social Enterprise Australia coordinates a national strategy to change this - to unlock the power of social enterprise. It is challenge-led, focusing on key areas where social enterprise can drive the most impact. And it is sector-owned, so that the efforts and energy of diverse people and organisations can align to make the biggest possible change.
- Elevate existing parts of the strategy.
- Define what success looks like
- Define the challenge areas where social enterprise can drive the most impact, and for each, name how it does this, what needs to be in place for this, and what success looks like
- Create a participation model so diverse people and organisations can take part.
- Build a framework to measure impact, and support learning and decision-making.
The Strategy Today:
The first three steps have been undertaken to strengthen the national strategy:
Step 1: Insights + pulse check survey - October 2025
Social Enterprise Australia asked for views on the current strategy and ideas to strengthen it. Read the survey findings.
Step 2: Forum (workshop) - November 2025
Social Enterprise Australia shared survey findings and a draft updated strategy based on them, then explored feedback, potential goals, and the action people want to take. Read the workshop findings.
Step 3: Shape the challenge areas - February 2026
Social Enterprise Australia hosted online workshops to help name how social enterprise can drive more impact in five challenge areas - access to decent work, environmental care, access to key and culturally safe goods and services, a future shaped by all people and communities, First Nations self-determination.
How to get involved from here
Step 4: Pulse check survey - March 2026
Social Enterprise Australia are sharing a draft updated strategy based on what they have heard so far and are inviting feedback via a short survey.
Step 5: Vote - April 2026
Social Enterprise Australia Members will discuss and finalise the updated strategy at their Members Meeting.
