Turning sector expertise into policy change, backing social enterprise
Since 2008, Social Traders has worked alongside Commonwealth, state and territory governments to shape policies, procurement frameworks and funding programs that grow the social enterprise sector.
We don't just advocate - we respond, advise and collaborate.
Social enterprise event organised by Social Traders at Parliament House
ReNew Property Maintenance
Federal government engagement
Social Traders has been an active voice in shaping Australia's national approach to social procurement - contributing submissions, providing policy advice and working directly with government departments to embed social enterprise into Commonwealth frameworks.
We submitted to the review, which has since recommended a Commonwealth Social Procurement Framework, a landmark step for the sector.
We contributed to the inquiry on economic dynamism, competition and business formation, making the case for social enterprise as a driver of economic participation.
The 2023 White Paper included a dedicated section on 'Backing social enterprise' - reflecting years of advocacy by Social Traders for employment services reform.
Our pre-budget submission contributed to a $21.9m package for Employment Services Reform, including $1.5m to certify an expected 500 Work Integrated Social Enterprises.
“The sector has achieved a great amount over recent decades, but there is potential to do so much more with the right regulatory settings and the right partnerships with governments … Now is the time to leverage for more… Social procurement is so important, and certification will be one of the first steps.”
Dr Daniel Mulino, Assistant Treasurer, Minister for Financial Services
State and territory government engagement
From whole-of-government memberships to targeted procurement pilots and grant programs, Social Traders works closely with state and territory governments to turn policy intent into practical outcomes for the social enterprise sector.
Victoria
Social Procurement Framework across 275 agencies
Victoria was the first state government to join Social Traders membership in 2018. Their Social Procurement Framework, now embedded across 275 agencies, is the leading model for leveraging procurement spend for social outcomes.
New South Wales
Procurement inquiry submission & guideline reform
NSW has been a member since 2020 and amended procurement guidelines to encourage social enterprise suppliers. We also submitted to their 2024 inquiry into the social impact of government procurement.
Queensland
Social Enterprise Jobs Fund and procurement pilot
The Queensland government is a Social Traders member with an $8m Social Enterprise Jobs Fund in place. Five departments joined our procurement capability pilot, and all local governments can now access certified social enterprises via Local Buy.
South Australia
Business for Good program and grants access
SA's Department of Human Services joined Social Traders in 2024, using our certification as eligibility criteria for grant funding. The SA Government also made its first major investment in the sector through the Business for Good program.
Australian Capital Territory
Social Enterprise Grants pilot
The ACT has been a member since 2021. In 2023, they launched a Social Enterprise Grants Program, actively encouraging agencies to engage social enterprises as part of their DEI procurement commitments.
“What you do has support from across the parliament. For those on the business side, you’re celebrating businesses. And for those who go into politics to help the most disadvantaged, you’re doing just that. The work of social enterprise spans the economy.”
Dr Andrew Leigh MP, Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury
Creative Plus
Social enterprise strategy best practice
Social Traders has reviewed social enterprise strategies across Canada, Scotland, New Zealand, and Australia to identify best practices that could shape a Commonwealth Social Enterprise Strategy.
The review examines key themes, motivations, investments, and actions from comparable contexts, alongside international research and OECD recommendations - exploring how effective strategies can grow a thriving social economy at every level.
Discover insights that drive impact
Browse our collaborative research and publications, packed with data-driven insights that supports the vital work of social enterprises.
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Partner with Social Traders
Whether you're developing a social procurement framework, looking to grow your government's engagement with social enterprise, or want to understand what other jurisdictions are doing - we're here to help.