Expressions of interest now open for the Philanthropy Leadership Summit 2025: Leadership for our times

Philanthropy Australia yesterday opened expressions of interest to attend its re-imagined Canberra summit. Philanthropy Australia’s biennial Summit is a major thought leadership event. First held in 2015 as the Philanthropy Meets Parliament Summit, it has helped to build a stronger relationship between philanthropy, our elected representatives and policy makers. PA is now delighted that the event will take an exciting new shape as the inaugural Philanthropy Leadership Summit 2025: Leadership for our times.

Why a Leadership Summit and why now?

There has never been a more important time for a robust examination of leadership in all its forms.

We are facing considerable challenges – globally, nationally and locally. As we grapple with rising inequality, climate change, economic uncertainty, and regional conflicts, many of the old rules and norms no longer apply. Disruption is all around us: in geopolitics, in media, in technology, in markets and in democracy.

Navigating these shifts to build a more inclusive and sustainable future requires nimble, adaptive leadership from us all, to shape a different and better future.

Leadership for our times

What leadership is needed for our times? What do we need to do differently, both individually and collectively? What can we learn from each other?

These questions are the focus of the Philanthropy Leadership Summit 2025, hosted by Philanthropy Australia.

In 2025, the event will take on an exciting new form – convening leaders from philanthropy, the for-purpose sector and government to explore the types of leadership needed now and into the future to steer through these turbulent times.

Blending compelling keynotes and engaging panel discussions, which draw on personal experiences and are grounded in frank conversations, the Leadership Summit will be a unique opportunity for leaders to discuss, reflect and move forward together.

If you would like to explore the topic of leadership for our times, we invite you to express your interest to attend the Philanthropy Leadership Summit.

Who can attend the Leadership Summit?

450 (max) leaders and emerging leaders from philanthropy, not-for-profit and government, including:

• Community leaders and emerging leaders
• For-purpose leaders and emerging leaders
• Philanthropic Trustees and Board Directors, CEOs and emerging leaders
• Members of Parliament, senior bureaucrats and public service leaders
• Scholarship recipients – to ensure accessibility and inclusion. (The scholarships are supported by Leadership Summit partners.)

When and where?

The Leadership Summit will take place in Canberra, 5-7 August 2025.

• Tuesday 5 August: Pre-Summit Dinner at the National Press Club with keynote by the Hon Julia Gillard AC followed by a fireside chat.
• Wednesday 6 August: Full day Leadership Summit held at Hotel Realm.
• Thursday 7 August: Half-day reflection via roundtables for funders only. Held at Hotel Realm.

++++

How do I submit an expression of interest to attend?

Visit the Philanthropy Leadership Summit website to learn more or jump straight in and apply.

I know a wonderful NFP/government/community leader – can I invite them to attend?

Fabulous! Encourage them to apply via the expression of interest page.

What if cost is an issue for the applicant?

People can also apply for a scholarship through the EOI process.

Sounds fascinating. My organisation is interested in becoming a Philanthropy Leadership Summit 2025 Partner. How do I find out more?

We are delighted to have already welcomed Perpetual as a Major Partner and Menzies Leadership Foundation as a Supporting Partner. For more information on partnerships, please visit our website Partners page.

I’m not a Philanthropy Australia member – can I express my interest to attend?

Certainly! While the registration fees are lower for members, you are welcome to apply via the expression of interest page. Places are strictly limited and submitting an EOI does not guarantee a ticket. If successful, we will send you instructions about how to register and purchase your ticket.

If you are not a member of Philanthropy Australia and want to join, please visit our Become a member webpage or contact your relevant state PA contact. To benefit from the member registration fee rate, you (or your organisation) must be a Philanthropy Australia member at the time of registration and at the time of the Leadership Summit.