What a difference a week makes! 

With 11 local government areas in SEQ now just out of lockdown and some now going into lockdown, and many of our social enterprises in regional areas impacted by these latest restrictions, we are all watching when conditions will change again. We know that the Delta strain is particularly virulent and we are grateful that our members and communities are largely supportive of the health guidelines. Stay safe and stay up to date with the latest health directives.

Help for Queensland Businesses

But we know that many members are doing it tough. To that end, QSEC has been advocating for relief packages and support for workers and our social enterprise businesses. We are pleased that the Federal and State Govt have responded with some measures that should go some way to helping those impacted in the SEQ areas, in addition to the packages introduced for regional businesses through Round 2 of the Queensland Government’s Business Basics Grants (Regional areas only). All the information on these initiatives are on the news page on the QSEC website. On Wednesday members met with Minister Di Farmer to ask about the new Business COVID Support Grants. Click here to review the Q&A.  Members are able to access the recording through the GRANTS page in the member forum.

Help Your Local Social Enterprise

We can all play a part to support local social enterprises. Many of our businesses have transitioned to online shopping, take-aways, zoom meetings and remote support for your essential services.  Make sure you check out the QSEC Instagram page and Directory to locate your local businesses to make sure each transaction makes positive action for a healthier environment, society and stronger cultural connections. 

Help Us Help You!

Don't forget to fill in our Annual Member Survey. The information you provide will be vital in guiding our direction, resources and support in the coming months.

Thanks to those who have already contributed. :) 

QSEC News Highlights

Elise Parups (CEO) and Leanne Butterworth (Membership Engagement Officer) have both pivoted to working from home and juggling homeschooling. They continue to work hard in their part-time capacity to support QSEC members during this period. If you need support, please reach out to either of them and make sure you fill in our survey so we can continue to help you where you need it most! 

Our QSEC Board are stepping up and leaning in. On top of working through their businesses needs, pivoting to meet the current challenges, the board have redoubled their efforts to build a strong representation for your voice. Our valued FNQ Social enterprise member Crystal Williams has stepped off the Board due to work commitments and we have now filled the casual vacancy with a social enterprise member from the Sunshine Coast, Terri Waller (SevGen Founder). We also welcomed ex-President and long-term supporter Emma Kate Rose (The Next Economy) as an Advisor to the Board and Associate Member Paul Garcia (CCIQ) as a Board Observer. Please see the updated listing of Board Members on the QSEC website.

We are grateful to have the support of Rachel Whitworth and her team at House of Eden Studio to help us with marketing and communications and Lara Stephenson from Social Good Outpost to support us through our IT complexities. We also have three new volunteers who are supporting our project and advocacy work: Ben Fahey from Rooy who is working with the Board on building a framework for a revised strategy. Jacqueline Boer who is assisting with bookkeeping and accounts and Claire Hanratty as Special Project Support. 

Social Enterprise Sector News

Philanthropist of the Year Awards

The Philanthropist of the Year Awards recognises Queenslanders and Queensland organisations who have made an outstanding contribution to charity or community service through giving time, generating funds, and/or encouraging others to give. The Philanthropy Innovation Award addresses the ever-changing landscape of philanthropy as individuals, groups or organisations try to adapt to the real world and develop solutions for today’s problems. The Queensland Community Foundation has requested that we share the upcoming Philanthropy Innovation Award. This category has been extended for until the end of this week, so if you have been working with an outstanding and innovative philanthropist, please consider nominating them for this award. 

Nominations and details can be found here.

Celebrating our Members!

Meet our member of the month

Eats Restaurant

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