For an economy that puts people and planet first
Social Enterprise Australia is the national peak body for social enterprise.
We connect, build and advocate for the sector, and coordinate its national strategy to unlock the power of social enterprise.
A social enterprise is a business that puts people and planet first.
They trade like any other business but exist specifically to make the world a better place.
While they work across industries and have different legal structures, they all:
Exist to solve a social or environmental problem.
Prioritise people, planet, and their purpose over profit in operational decisions.
Have a self-sustaining revenue model.
Reinvest most of any surplus in their purpose.
Choose legal structures and financing that protect and lock in purpose long-term.
National strategy
Business as usual cannot solve the social and environmental challenges we face. We need more innovation and collaboration that puts people and the planet first.
Social enterprises have a distinct role to play. They use the power of business to test and scale new ways to drive the changes we need.
But many people don't know what social enterprise is or how to get involved. And we need better systems so more social enterprises can reach their potential.
Social Enterprise Australia coordinates a national strategy to change this: to unlock the power of social enterprise, together. It is focused on key areas where social enterprise can drive the most impact. And it is ecosystem-owned, so that the efforts and energy of diverse people and organisations can align to make big change possible.
How we work
Advocate
We advocate with and for the sector with a focus on national issues.
Connect
We connect the ecosystem to plan, act and learn together.
Build
We build and share sector data, insights and practical supports
Join us to amplify impact.
Shape: Be part of a powerful, democratic community shaping Australia’s social enterprise strategy.
Amplify: Drive bold campaigns for an economy that works for all.
Innovate: Connect with a vibrant community of doers to build the future we want, together.
Any Australian-based business that puts people and planet first can apply to be a Social Enterprise Member. Any organisation or individual aged 18 or over that supports this work can apply to be an Associate Member.
Together we can drive change
Stay informed. Get involved.
Size and economic contribution of social enterprise in Australia
There are over 12,000
social enterprises in Australia.
They contribute $21.3 billion to the economy or 1% of GDP.
They employ over 200,000 people - about one in 60 jobs in Australia.
Understorey
It is a place to navigate the Australian social enterprise sector and to learn and exchange. It does this to help social enterprises thrive and contribute to a better future.
Understorey is a knowledge commons: an online resource available to all, and shaped by all who choose to take part.
It brings together a national map, learning communities and resources as part of the Australian Government's Social Enterprise Development Initiative, and is coordinated by Social Enterprise Australia.
