Drawing on responses from 219 social economy organisations, the study provides a detailed picture of Australia’s social economy, encompassing charities, other not-for-profits, social enterprises, cooperatives, mutuals and philanthropic organisations, all driven by a social or environmental mission rather than a profit motive.

The study reveals that for-purpose organisations across Australia are under increasing strain in the face of mounting economic and workforce pressures. The findings provide a snapshot of the challenges, opportunities and emerging priorities shaping the nation’s social economy. 

Key findings

• Cyber security has surged as a major concern. Widespread cybercrime surged into the top five external risks facing the sector.
• Workforce challenges are intensifying. Recruiting and retaining staff or volunteers has become one of the sector's top three priorities.
• Funding remains the sector's biggest challenge. Against a backdrop of economic uncertainty and increasing demand, maintaining funding and diversifying income sources, remain the sector's two biggest priorities. 
• Organisations are being asked to prove impact without adequate resources. Despite growing expectations to demonstrate impact, almost half say they lack the dedicated funding needed to measure it properly.