Unpacking the Social Economy

Are you involved in social enterprise, or just curious about how communities can work together to create fairer, more sustainable futures? Join this conversation featuring local, national and international systems-shifters in the social and solidarity economy. 

About this webinar

This webinar introduces the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) - a globally recognised approach to economic development that centres community ownership, democratic governance, social purpose, and environmental care.

In many parts of the world, SSE enterprises - including co-operatives, mutuals, and community-led initiatives - have helped communities build stronger local economies, create good jobs, and retain wealth in their regions. While SSE is less well known in Australia (even in the co-operative movement itself), there’s growing interest in how these models can help us address complex challenges like inequality, housing, care, and regional disadvantage.

Whether you're new to the concept or already working in this space, this session will help unpack what the SSE is, why it matters, and how it can work in an Australian context. It will explore:

• What is the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE)?
• How can we support community-owned, inclusive business models?
• What lessons can Australia learn from global practice?

This session is for anyone interested in:

• Social enterprise and impact-led business.
• Community-led development.
• Inclusive economic models.
• Co-operatives, mutuals and shared ownership.
• Exploring new ideas for building stronger local economies.

Simel Esim

Head of Co-operatives Unit

 

International Labour Organisation

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Bringing a global perspective, Simel leads the Co-operatives Unit at the ILO in Geneva and has worked extensively on gender equality, informal work, and co-operative development. Her insights will offer real-world examples of how communities around the world are using SSE to address systemic disadvantage.

Richard Warner

Coordinator / CEO

 

Nundah Community Enterprises Co-operative

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A social worker and community development practitioner, Richard coordinates an award-winning Brisbane co-operative led by people with disability. He is also former Chair of the Queensland Social Enterprise Council.

Michael Pilbrow

Founder

 

Strategic Development Group

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Based in regional NSW, Michael is a former diplomat and strategy consultant who supports regional communities with housing, social care, education, and employment projects. He brings expertise in mutual ownership and inclusive local development. Michael plays a leading role in the Care Together program of the Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals.

Antony McMullen

Chair

 

Co-operative Bonds

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A long-time advocate for the social and solidarity economy, Antony is a co-operative developer, writer and strategic adviser. He will guide the session and Q&A.