This paper is the first output of a project entitled Beyond charity: the engagement of the philanthropic and homelessness sectors in Australia. The report has two purposes. First, it outlines the focus of, and rationale for, this empirical research investigating the engagement of the philanthropic and homelessness sectors in Australia. Second, it presents the results of a targeted literature review scoping the form and extent of philanthropic and homelessness sector engagement, also paying specific attention to the structures that support active philanthropic engagement with homelessness, including taxation incentives and disincentives.