Driving Social Change: Perspectives from Parliament

At The Smith Family, we believe partnering with governments is critical to bring long-term, systemic change. We advocate for change on behalf of children and young people experiencing disadvantage, to ensure all young Australians can get the most from their education.

In this conversation, our CEO Doug Taylor speaks with The Honourable Dr Andrew Leigh MP, Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities, Treasury and Employment, to explore some of the key issues facing young people today, and how governments and charities can work together to strengthen our communities for a better future.

“A society that has more economic inequality is often a society that has less social connectivity,” says Assistant Minister Leigh. “So I'm really passionate in my role as Assistant Minister for Charities, not just in getting charity regulation right, but building a more connected Australia.”

Conversation highlights

Assistant Minister Leigh talks to Doug about:

[2:54] Education reform and current challenges in education
[5:30] The link between economic inequality and social connection
[7:17] The future of volunteering in Australia
[9:04] Sustainable and effective funding for charities
[10:45] The government’s target to double philanthropic giving
[13:13] Collaboration between governments and charities for a better future

Watch the full conversation below or listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.