What funders need to know about the Centre for Inclusive Employment

Philanthropy Australia’s Disability Funders Network and the Jobs and Skills Funders Network are holding a joint session to discuss the work and practice of the recently launched Centre for Inclusive Employment. As work in diversity, equity and inclusion comes under threat around the world, this is a critical time to consider philanthropy’s role in this space, writes Dr Liz Branigan, Director, Knowledge & Practice at Philanthropy Australia.

The rise of Trump-aligned politics in the US poses indirect but significant threats to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts globally – including for Australian funders. The backlash against DEI in the US – framing it as divisive or ideological – has the potential to embolden similar rhetoric in Australia, influencing public discourse, policy debates and philanthropic trusts. In the US, funders are facing growing scrutiny and pressure to depoliticise equity-focused work.

The global shift has the potential to weaken philanthropic leadership on DEI. If US funders retreat, Australian counterparts may lose valuable models, momentum and legitimacy. As the landscape for equity-driven funding is becoming more fragile, Australian funders must not retreat. Instead, this is a moment to deepen commitment, localise the case for equity, invest in long-term systems change and lived experience. We invite you to respond by learning about the new Centre for Inclusive Employment.

At a time when global equity efforts are under pressure, Australian funders have a critical opportunity to lead with courage and clarity. Two of Philanthropy Australia’s Peer Networks have come together to host this important session titled ‘Reimagining disability employment: The Centre for Inclusive Employment and its role in the funder ecosystem’. The webinar offers funders a practical and hopeful way to engage in systems-level change.

This session introduces the Centre for Inclusive Employment, launched on 7 March – part of the government’s reform of the disability employment system. The aim is to ensure an evidence-led approach to change in a practical way by providing information and tools to employment service providers assisting job seekers with a disability.

By synthesising and disseminating information about ‘what works’, the Centre will be a resource for funders. It also offers the opportunity for funders to play a more strategic and catalytic role in promoting improved outcomes. We have invited leaders of the Centre to challenge us about the role that philanthropy can play in driving change.

Funders will leave with a deeper understanding of:

• The origins and purpose of the Centre of Excellence.
• How to think about improving evidence-based practice in supporting people experiencing barriers to employment.
• How to align philanthropic funding with government funding to effect structural solutions, not just short-term fixes.

This webinar is a timely invitation to stay informed, connected and proactive. In the face of global headwinds, this is a chance to strengthen local leadership on equity. The funder networks can cultivate a safe space to foster meaningful dialogue between key actors working to advance inclusive employment. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of shaping a more inclusive future of funding.

Philanthropy Australia funder members at Engage and Impact membership tiers can register for the ‘Reimagining disability employment: The Centre for Inclusive Employment and its role in the funder ecosystem’ event being held online on Thursday 29 May at 12.30-1.30pm AEST.