A social enterprise is a business that puts people and planet first.
Social Enterprise Australia is the peak body for social enterprise in Australia. We connect the sector to plan, act and learn together. We do this to have a shared national strategy and voice, and to develop new ways to build social and environmental wellbeing.
They trade like any other business, but exist specifically to make the world a better place.
Our vision is working together to ensure all people, places and the planet thrive.
Our mission is to foster a vibrant and connected Australian social enterprise sector that provides:
Environmental care
People-centred services
Access to decent work
Community-led innovation
Our ambition is for a future where social enterprise is business as usual.
People and Planet First
There’s growing demand for businesses that put people and planet first. But it can be hard to tell the real thing from marketing hype.
To help change this, People and Planet First global verification has launched. It sets five clear and robust minimum standards. Verification against these is simple and affordable. It is governed by social enterprise sector partners around the world, to protect integrity.
No greenwashing. No social washing. No complication. Just businesses that put people and planet first.
The 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 Australian economy each year and account for 1% of GDP.
They employ over 200,000 people; that's 1 in 60 jobs or 1.6% of the Australian workforce. This is about the same number of people as employed in arts and recreation services or the mining industry.
Social Enterprise National Strategy
Australia faces social, environmental and economic challenges that demand new responses.
The social enterprise sector can help.
However, social enterprise sits between traditional business and charity, so many fall through the gaps in the supports that exist. It does the job of both without the enablers of either. As a result, it is not realising its potential.
We work with the social enterprise sector in Australia to lead its national strategy.
