Sector collaboration

SVA knows that the problems facing Australia’s disadvantaged are too entrenched for only one sector of society; business, non-profit or government, to successfully tackle alone. Real, systemic change can only occur when all facets of society work together to affect lasting solutions. Here are some examples of how SVA is working across the social sector to bring about change.

Australian Philanthropic Services

The level of interest in private ancillary funds in Australia is growing, with more and more individuals and families recognising how simple and rewarding these giving structures are.

In April 2012 the SVA PAF service and team rebranded to Australian Philanthropic Services (APS), to provide greater focus and accelerate growth plans. Dedicated to inspiring and supporting philanthropy and effective grantmaking, APS has a unique model, operating as a not-for- profit business and being completely independent. Find out more.

GoodStart Early Learning

In December 2009, a non-profit syndicate comprising Social Ventures Australia, Mission Australia, the Benevolent Society and the Brotherhood of St Laurence successfully bid for and later ultimately purchased 650 plus ABC Learning Centres from receivers McGrathNicol. Learn more about GoodStart Early Learning.

Investing in impact

As part of SVA’s commitment to encourage increased transparency and improved accountability in the social sector, we have joined forces with the Centre for Social Impact (CSI) and PricewaterhouseCoopers Foundation to increase awareness of Social Return on Investment (SROI) in Australia.

 School for Social Entrepreneurs Australia

Based on the highly successful UK model, the first School for Social Entrepreneurs Australia (SSE) opened in Sydney in 2009. Established with the financial support of the Vincent Fairfax Foundation and the Westpac Foundation, SVA incubated the SSE prior to its launch and continues to provide the School ongoing support. SSE Australia’s goal is to assist social entrepreneurs in transforming their talent and drive into real social outcomes and has supported the development of 67 social entrepreneurs across its Sydney and, now, Melbourne Schools. Over 200 SSE students are expected to graduate by the end of 2013.

Social Enterprise World Forum

In October 2009, SVA and Social Traders co-hosted the Social Enterprise World Forum in Melbourne. Attended by over 500 social enterprise practitioners, funders and supporters from all over Australia and around the world, the highly successful two-day event provided delegates with the opportunity to meet, learn and share.