Save the date: Philanthropy Leadership Summit 2025

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. 

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. 

Now in its tenth year, 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. 

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. 

The inaugural 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

Join us in Canberra for the Philanthropy Leadership Summit 2025: Leadership for our times.