A new chapter for Philanthropy Australia’s First Nations Funders Network

This year marks a new chapter for Philanthropy Australia’s First Nations Funders Network, with Michelle Steele, a Kamilaroi woman, recently been appointed Chair. She brings both lived experience and deep sector insight through her role as Chief First Nations Officer at Paul Ramsay Foundation.

The Network brings together funder members of Philanthropy Australia who are committed to strengthening their approach and support for First Nations organisations and communities, and learning from one another. Grounded in principles of respect, relationships, responsibility, reciprocity and redistribution, the Network reflects a broader shift across the sector towards more relational and community-led approaches to philanthropy.

“The 2023 Referendum showed philanthropy at its bravest, coming together in solidarity with First Nations peoples and communities,” Michelle said. “I believe this moment sparked a shift across our sector towards more authentic collaboration and better giving practices, centred on respect and partnership.

“I wanted to take on this role to help build on this momentum, ensuring our collective commitment translates into meaningful outcomes and empowers First Nations voices at every step.”

Participation is more than attendance

The First Nations Funders Network is underpinned by a clear commitment from members that participation is more than attendance. Members agree to directly fund First Nations communities or First Nations-led and controlled initiatives; to build their own organisational capability; and to engage openly in learning, reflection and accountability.

Recent engagement with members is also helping to shape the network’s next phase. A 2026-member survey highlighted strong interest in deepening collective understanding and practice across several priority areas.

1. Partnerships, collaboration and collective action.
2. Opportunities to support Voice, Treaty and Truth processes and strengthen nation-building efforts.
3. Advancing self-determination and learning from Indigenous-led funds.
4. Improving governance approaches that centre First Nations leadership.

The survey also reinforced how members want to engage. There is a clear preference for peer-to-peer learning, open sharing and expert-led deep dives that support practical, honest and reflective conversations.

“What we’re hearing clearly from members is a desire to go deeper,” said Ollie Hanson, Director of Engagement (WA) and First Nations Funders Network Lead at Philanthropy Australia. “There is growing recognition that how funding is delivered is as important as where it is directed, and that building trust, capability and long-term partnerships is central to achieving meaningful outcomes.”

To find out more about the First Nations Funders Network or how to get involved, members can contact Ollie Hanson via [email protected]. The next meeting is on June 25, 2026.