Australian Government Strengthens Support for First Nations Social Enterprises

The Australian Government has reinforced its commitment to the social enterprise sector with new and continued investment, recognising the vital role these organisations play in creating positive social and economic outcomes.

The Social Enterprise Development Initiative (SEDI) was initially backed by a $11.6 million investment over three years from 2023 to June 2026, as part of the Targeting Entrenched Disadvantage package. This foundational funding has supported social enterprises across Australia in building capability, strengthening operations, and expanding their impact.

Building on this, the government has announced further commitments, including $3.3 million dedicated to First Nations social enterprises and $3.4 million to extend SEDI through to June 2027. These investments are designed to support the continued growth and long-term impact of the social enterprise sector in Australia.

Social enterprises sit at the intersection of purpose and profit, reinvesting in communities while operating sustainably. Continued government support signals confidence in the sector’s ability to drive meaningful, long-term change.