Overview
Please join us for the July meeting of the Queensland Funders Peer Network. For our third gathering this year, we’re pleased to welcome Ben Gales, Executive Advisor of the Office of Social Impact within Queensland Treasury.
Ben’s appointment to lead Queensland’s first Office of Social Impact marks a significant development for the philanthropic and social enterprise landscape. The Office is tasked with identifying and supporting impact investment and social enterprise opportunities that deliver real, lasting solutions for Queensland communities.
This includes managing the new Social Entrepreneurs Fund, which will invest $20 million annually over four years, starting in 2025–26, to support organisations helping Queenslanders in need.
Join us as Ben shares insights into the work underway at the Office of Social Impact, key emerging trends, and the evolving role of philanthropy in this space. The session will be interactive, with plenty of opportunity for discussion and questions.
When
Tuesday 22 July 2025
Hybrid
This event will be held in-person and online in QLD.
Brisbane
Time: 10:00am - 11:30am AEST
Venue: University of Queensland, Brisbane
In-person format: 1 hour meeting and discussion followed by networking.
Virtual
Time: 10:00am - 11:00am AEST
Online format: 1 hour meeting. Virtual meeting link will be provided after registration.
Audience
This event is for Philanthropy Australia New Gen, Engage (individual), Engaged/Engage (organisation) and Impact members funding initiatives based in Queensland.
If you are not yet a member of Philanthropy Australia or want to find out more about the philanthropic work in this area, please reach out to membership@philanthropy.org.au.
Presenter
 |
|
Ben Gales - Head, Queensland Office of Social Impact
With a career spanning finance, government, and impact investment, Ben Gales has worked to help social enterprises thrive. Now, as the head of Queensland’s first Office of Social Impact, Ben will work to support social enterprises and impact investment—helping deliver real solutions for Queenslanders.
Previously, Ben Gales was the Chief Delivery Officer at the Paul Ramsay Foundation. From 2013 to 2016, he served as CEO of Sefa.
|
| |
|
An economist by training, Ben brings deep expertise in impact investing, social impact measurement, and fostering innovation, having led major reforms and initiatives across government, finance, and the social sectors.
In the UK, Ben was involved in the early days of impact investing through the launch of the Social Investment Taskforce in 2000 under Sir Ronald Cohen while working at HM Treasury.
In the NSW Government, he played a critical role in developing Australia’s first Social Impact Bonds, “Newpin” and “Resilient Families,” and managed the Office of Social Impact Investment, overseeing over $200 million in impact investments and payment-by-outcome contracts. Ben also led the establishment of the NSW Productivity Commission and developed the NSW Evidence Bank within NSW Treasury. His experience includes working in venture capital with 3i plc in the UK and US from 2000 to 2008. He has sat on several boards and is currently a board member of the Justice Health and Forensic Mental Health Network.
|
Peer Network Lead
 |
|
Kim Harland - Director, Engagement (QLD/NT), Philanthropy Australia
Kim Harland is a strategic leader with expertise in philanthropy, stakeholder engagement, and business development in the for-purpose sector.
As Director, Membership and Engagement (QLD/NT) at Philanthropy Australia, she plays a key role in strengthening member engagement, fostering partnerships, and driving impact across the philanthropic landscape.
|
| |
|
With over 20 years of experience spanning multi-generational family business and the not-for-profit sector, Kim has a track record in growing engagement, enhancing brand visibility, and optimising operations. She is passionate about building strong, connected communities and supporting the philanthropic visions of individuals and organisations in Queensland and the Northern Territory. |
| |
|
Kim leads our Arts Funders Peer Network and is on the board of Rosies on the Street, a charity providing support and acceptance to individuals experiencing homelessness. |
Learn more about Philanthropy Australia membership.
