Research for Social Impact

In our latest episode of the Research for Social Impact podcast, we examine the recent research led by CSI Swinburne in partnership with the NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ), focused on how public sector employers can expand employment opportunities and pathways for people with intellectual disability. The discussion features CSI Swinburne Research Fellow and co-author Lucy Macali a...

In this episode, we explore research by the Centre for Social Impact at Swinburne into innovative supported employment pathways designed to create meaningful opportunities for marginalised groups. Our discussion delves into the latest insights on how tailored employment models can foster inclusion, build skills, and support long-term workforce participation. Joining the conversation is Dr. Perri C...

In this episode, we explore a groundbreaking three-year financial wellbeing project, led by Whitebox Enterprises and funded by the Ecstra Foundation. This initiative is the first bespoke financial wellbeing program designed specifically for, and with, jobs-focused social enterprises, helping employees build confidence, skills, and behaviours around money management. Joining the conversation are Ke...

In this episode of the Research for Social Impact Podcast, we explore the potential of cross-sector collaboration to help Work Integration Social Enterprises (WISEs) scale their impact. Our guest is Sally McGeoch, a PhD candidate at the Centre for Social Impact Swinburne University of Technology, whose research is exploring how partnerships can drive growth in the WISE sector. Sally also brings ex...

In this episode of the Research for Social Impact Podcast, we delve into the Australian Government’s Payment by Outcomes (PBO) Trial for social enterprise. PBO is an innovative funding model that rewards outcomes rather than prescribed activities, marking a significant shift in how social services could be funded. The PBO trial is funded by the Department of Social Services and delivered in collab...

This episode of the Research for Social Impact Podcast, we delve into a vital study on the mental health and wellbeing of workers within Australia’s creative industries, research conducted by the Centre for Social Impact Swinburne University of Technology in collaboration with Support Act, a charity dedicated to providing crisis relief and mental health support, particularly for those in the music...

In this episode, we delve into the topic of outcomes measurement, which has become increasingly important in work undertaken across the social impact ecosystem in terms of both accountability and demonstrating effectiveness. But what exactly do we mean by outcomes measurement, and what challenges do we face in this process? To unpack this complex topic, we’ve brought together two researchers from...

Welcome to the first episode of the Research for Social Impact podcast! In this episode, we wanted to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Centre for Social Impact (CSI) at Swinburne University of Technology, and provide an overview of our work at the Centre. Joining us as our first-ever guest is our Centre Director at CSI Swinburne, Professor Erin Wilson. Erin brings a wealth of experienc...