Impact at Scale

This paper explores the topic of impact at scale within the Australian social sector. It sets out key features of impact at scale, with Australian case studies highlighting the different approaches in working towards this goal. Our aim is that the paper will bring together a uniquely Australian set of perspectives on the topic, which is broadly missing in current literature. In developing this paper, we spoke with sector leaders from across the country to understand the different experiences and pathways being adopted when working towards impact at scale. We surveyed over 300 people working across the social sector to better understand their views on how impact at scale is important to their work and the enablers and barriers they faced in their efforts. We also convened over 100 leaders from across the public, private, philanthropic and non-government sectors to test and share our emerging insights and perspectives on impact at scale. In this forum, we were challenged to think more laterally about the topic and reflect further on the voice of lived experience from across the community, and to learn from and be led by First Nations' perspectives. The paper explores four areas to support social purpose leaders and organisations better understand and plan their efforts to drive lasting change across Australia.