NEXUS unveils Impact Society; deepens partnership with Philanthropy Australia

In the two years since NEXUS Australia and Philanthropy Australia became formal partners, next gen philanthropy has grown in scope and impact. A globally estimated $68 trillion is now expected to shift from Baby Boomers to younger generations over the next 20 years and emerging philanthropists, who often have different views than their predecessors on where and how to give, want to be supported and inspired on their giving journeys. 

Both organisations have long helped emerging philanthropists connect, share and learn. Philanthropy Australia via its New Gen Program of Giving membership, and NEXUS Australia via its national membership and calendar of local and global events. Now, they will move towards a greater sector partnership approach, fostering collaboration and removing product duplication. 

Philanthropy Australia will retire its New Gen membership and support NEXUS Australia in the launch of the NEXUS Impact Society, a program for next gen philanthropists, wealth inheritors and impact investors aged 18-45 to go deeper together on their personal impact journeys.  

“This collaboration has demonstrated the power of aligning our respective strengths: NEXUS’s global community and peer-led model alongside Philanthropy Australia’s role as the national peak body for philanthropy,” said Maree Sidey, CEO Philanthropy Australia.  

Lucy Steggles, NEXUS Australia Executive Officer, added: “We are thankful for the trust that Maree and the team have put into us to engage the next generation of philanthropists and social change innovators. Philanthropy Australia has been a supportive and trusted partner, and we look forward to working together to continue to grow a culture of giving and generosity in Australia.” 

NEXUS Australia Impact Society 

Designed as a small trust-based collective, the Impact Society will be a paid membership enabling next gen wealth members to go deeper on their personal impact journeys. It replicates the NEXUS’ global Impact Society program, which has more than 200 members across the US and Europe. Each Impact Society Member will get a customised experience, with only 40 places open for the inaugural 2026 cohort. The Australian launch will be marked by a private event in April, featuring international special guests. 

Rachel English, Co-chair, NEXUS advisory council said “Part of NEXUS’s power lies in the collaboration and learning that only trusted, supportive peers can offer. With the launch of the NEXUS Australia Impact Society, we’re creating a dedicated space for the future leaders of Australian philanthropy to strengthen their global and domestic networks and deepen their shared commitment to lasting impact. We’re excited to see the ripple effect this group will create across the sector in the years ahead.” 

NEXUS Australia will continue to be hosted by Philanthropy Australia and will support philanthropists into wide sector memberships as individuals mature.  

More connected philanthropy 

Both organisations recognise that the future of philanthropy depends on collaboration – across generations, across sectors and across borders. 

“By deepening this partnership, we aim to create a stronger, more unified offering that meets the needs of today’s next-generation leaders while contributing to a more connected and impactful philanthropic landscape in Australia,” said Lucy. 

Maree added: “Engaging and supporting the next generation of philanthropists is central to Strategy 2033 and our vision for a more generous, just and inclusive Australia. We are pleased to create opportunities for emerging leaders to contribute with confidence, curiosity and purpose.”  

To find out more about NEXUS Australia, please visit the NEXUS Australia website.  

To learn more about the Impact Society, please submit an Expression of Interest.