Queensland will soon have its first Office of Social impact to identify and promote for-purpose enterprises.
State Treasurer David Janetzki said the new office would oversee an $80 million Social Entrepreneurs Fund and drive the development of for-purpose and social enterprises across the state.
Treasurer Janetzki said social enterprises were businesses that delivered a purpose beyond profit and could help governments tackle societal challenges.
He said the Office’s first major task would be to create a roadmap for social enterprise and impact investing in Queensland, in collaboration with investors, community, faith groups, philanthropies, the private sector and social entrepreneurs.
“This roadmap will define the role of the landmark $80 million Social Entrepreneurs Fund in supporting social entrepreneurs and impact investors making daily impacts on Queenslanders’ lives.”
Treasurer Janetzki said a Social Impact Advisory Roundtable convened for the first time this week to discuss the potential opportunities and challenges to upscale Queensland’s social enterprise industry, with a Philanthropic Roundtable also held to identify opportunities for greater sector engagement in Queensland.
“Social enterprises often deliver greater benefits than a workplace, or a service.
“They can change lives for the better, through improved education, health or employment outcomes.”
Treasurer Janetzki said the roundtables were chaired by prominent philanthropist Allan English, who received an Order of Australia for Philanthropy and services to the community in 2020.
