Australian Social Enterprises

Arts Project Australia supports artists with intellectual disabilities by providing studio programs, promoting their work through exhibitions, and advocating for inclusion in the contemporary art sector. The organisation enables artists to create, exhibit, and sell their art while building social connections and economic opportunities.

We are a centre of excellence that supports artists with an intellectual disability, to promote their work and advocate their inclusion in contemporary art practice and dialogue.

We might have a new name, but we’re not the new kids on the block. You once knew us as House with No Steps and The Tipping Foundation – two great organisations, with over 100 years of combined experience, who came together in 2018. Yes, we’re a disability service provider, but we’re also so much more. We’re the helper, mentor, coach, and trusted partner of around 5000 people with a disability throughout the east coast of Australia. We’re also proud to employ nearly 400 people with a disability across our seven businesses. From packaging and facility services to delicious biscuits and a working avocado and macadamia farm, our businesses offer quality products and services whilst advocating for Australians living with disability. All our Businesses are Social Enterprises certified by Social Traders. Meaning we are profit for purpose! We are sustainable and commercially competitive, but we exist for the sole purpose of creating meaningful, enjoyable employment for people with disability. We know that our Businesses are productive, creative, innovative, and great at problem solving. But work with us and find out for yourself! By including people with disabilities into your supply chain you help to increase their exposure to corporate sourcing, whilst improving employment, training, and social inclusion opportunities. Aruma is committed to participating in the communities in which we operate. We strive to increase local spending and create jobs for local suppliers and contractors. In 2022, our Businesses contributed over $17.3 million into the economy and for every dollar invested into an Aruma businesses there is a $2.05 return on investment to our local communities via improved incomes for employees, disability support pension savings and increased economic activity of carers. There are numerous benefits to employment such as improved relationships, self-reliance, and self-esteem. And, supported employment with Aruma gives people with a disability opportunity to learn new skills, get work experience, meet new people, work on their career goals, and earn an income. Our employees can work in different roles throughout our businesses including gardening, administration, biscuit manufacturing, tour guides, cooks and more. We never use a one-size-fits-all approach - supporting people to live a great life, the life they want, the life they choose!

ASTERIA is a proud diverse organisation, offering tailored disability support and commercial services to the residents of central Victoria, with operations based in Maryborough and Bendigo.ASTERIA provides a comprehensive range of services, including individual and programs of support, in-home and community-based assistance, respite and accommodation services, support coordination as well as children and youth support. Our supported employment program underpins our commercial services, which are available to the community and local businesses.At ASTERIA, we are dedicated to removing barriers, creating opportunities, and empowering individuals to make their own choices. Through inclusive services and employment programs, we strengthen community connections and promote social participation, helping individuals thrive while contributing to a more equitable and supportive society. ASTERIA’s supported employment program empowers individuals with disabilities by providing meaningful work opportunities in a safe, inclusive environment. Employees gain practical job skills, soft skills like communication and teamwork, and health and safety knowledge through tailored training. This fosters independence, confidence, and career growth. Families benefit from the stability and sense of purpose these roles provide, knowing their loved ones are supported and valued.

ATSI Golf Aboriginal Corporation is an Indigenous business dedicated to promoting and facilitating golf activities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It aims to foster community engagement, improve physical health through sport, and strengthen cultural connections within Indigenous communities.

The Australian Indigenous Psychologists Association (Aboriginal Corporation) supports and advocates for Indigenous psychologists while promoting culturally appropriate mental health services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The organisation works to strengthen the Indigenous mental health workforce and improve access to culturally safe psychological support. Through its advocacy and professional support, it contributes to addressing the significant mental health disparities experienced by Indigenous Australians.

Baby First Aid Qld is North Queensland's first permanent social enterprise dedicated to providing parents and caregivers with essential first aid knowledge and skills to care for infants and children. Through certified courses covering emergencies like choking, CPR, and poisoning, they empower families with the confidence to respond effectively when every second counts.

Balaman Wellness Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation is an Indigenous organisation based in Queensland. Its name suggests a focus on promoting wellness within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, aiming to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for these populations.

Ballina Shire Council is located in the Northern Rivers of the Far North Coast of New South Wales. It covers an area of 485 km² with a population of approximately 41,000 (2011 Census). We have a prosperous economy based on building, retail, tourism, hospitality, agriculture and education. Our services and facilities include numerous open spaces, two public swimming pools, three libraries, a number of community spaces, a community art gallery, and a regional airport providing numerous daily jet services between Sydney, Melbourne and Newcastle. Working with a regional community that is progressive, innovative and creative, our Council strategies and services are designed to deliver an outstanding lifestyle for our residents, workers and visitors. We are also mindful that as we are in one of the fastest growing regions in Australia we need to protect what we have now while planning for the future.

The Barkly Region Alcohol and Drug Abuse Advisory Group Aboriginal Corporation is an Indigenous organisation in the Northern Territory. It focuses on providing advisory services and support related to alcohol and drug abuse, aiming to reduce harm and improve well-being within the Barkly Aboriginal communities.

For over 50 years, Barkuma has worked alongside people with disability to find rewarding jobs, learn new skills, explore their talents, and be included in the community. Barkuma provides services to over 700 people, making it one of the largest disability organisations in South Australia. Services include open and supported employment, transition services, community living support, training, counselling, advocacy and support. The Barkuma differences are a reflection of our deep-rooted commitment to inclusivity, innovation and individual empowerment. As a trusted and experienced partner in disability services, we are proud to continue to make a significant impact on the lives of individuals in South Australia, fostering a sense of belonging and independence. We are proud to have received the Service Provider Award at the 2023 South Australian Premier’s Food and Beverage Industry Awards. We have a 50-year history and are dedicated to South Australians. Barkuma’s not-for-profit ethos and person-centred approach distinguish us from others in the field. We work with people to establish the capacity and confidence to transition out of high school and continue to build a life of independence that makes quality employment and accommodation outcomes achievable.

Barrala Health Service Aboriginal Corporation is an Indigenous organisation focused on delivering health services. Its core mission is to improve health outcomes and provide culturally appropriate care primarily for Aboriginal communities in Western Australia.

Bayside Vegies is a social enterprise in Hervey Bay, Queensland that processes and sells fresh vegetables to hospitals, aged care facilities, restaurants, and other businesses. All profits fund Bayside Transformations, the Wide Bay region's only residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre, which provides treatment for addiction and mental health issues.

Be Defib Aware Indigenous Corporation is an Indigenous organisation likely focused on promoting awareness and access to defibrillators. Its probable social impact involves improving health outcomes and emergency preparedness within Indigenous communities by providing education and resources.

Bedford is a not-for-profit registered charity that exists to support people with disability to live the life they choose through jobs, pathways and opportunities. As the second-largest employer of people with disability in Australia, Bedford provides a broad range of employment options, services and supports for nearly 1400 clients across 22 sites in South Australia. Bedford exists to support people with disability to live the life they choose through jobs, pathways and opportunities. Our Bedford-backed social enterprises offer a range of products and services, including food and beverage, manufacturing and landscape construction, with all profits returning to Bedford to create more opportunities. Providing employees and clients with meaningful employment and a variety of services and supports, such as social programs, residential care, training programs, and capacity-building.

Bidgerdii Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Corporation is a community health service operating in the Central Queensland Region. It focuses on providing culturally appropriate health services specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, aiming to improve their health outcomes and overall well-being.

Bila Muuji Aboriginal Corporation Health Service is an Indigenous corporation and registered charity focused on providing health services. Its social impact is centered on improving the health and well-being of Aboriginal communities, likely within New South Wales.

Biripi Aboriginal Corporation Medical Centre operates as a healthcare provider, specifically a medical centre, serving the Indigenous community. Its primary social impact is to improve health outcomes and provide essential, culturally appropriate medical services to Aboriginal people.

Blackroo Community Indigenous Corporation is an Indigenous social enterprise and charity focused on supporting Indigenous communities. While specific activities are not detailed, it likely aims to improve social and economic outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through community-led initiatives.

Body Buddies is an Australian social enterprise selling soft toys and accessories shaped like body organs to raise health awareness among the next generation. They aim to foster a more health-engaged and proactive community, donating 50% of their profits to Transplant Australia.

Bokul-Nee Men Shed Aboriginal Corporation appears to operate as a Men's Shed organization providing a safe and supportive space for Indigenous men to connect, share skills, and support each other's wellbeing. Based on the Men's Shed model, the organization likely addresses social isolation and promotes mental health and community engagement among Indigenous men in NSW.

Borroloola Aboriginal Medical Service Aboriginal Corporation is an Indigenous organisation dedicated to providing essential medical and health services to the Aboriginal community in Borroloola, Northern Territory. Its core social impact lies in improving health outcomes and access to healthcare for local Indigenous people.

Bourke Aboriginal Corporation Health Service is an Indigenous corporation providing health services to the Aboriginal community in Bourke, NSW. Its primary social impact is to improve the health and well-being of local Indigenous people.

Brisbane Natives Sports Indigenous Corporation is an Indigenous organisation focused on sports. Based on its name, it likely aims to promote sports participation and development among Indigenous people in the Brisbane area, fostering community engagement and well-being through athletic activities.

For over 45 years Brite Services, an Australian Disability Enterprise, has been providing supported employment and training services for people with a disability. Brite provides diverse employment opportunities in horticulture, manufacturing and assistive technology for over 140 people. As a social enterprise and a profit for purpose business, we’ve been changing people’s futures for more than 45 years by providing our community with jobs and opportunities.We know that real employment is a catalyst for change, breaking down barriers and setting people up for success in life. We offer a safe and supportive workplace for people with varying abilities, with a focus on personal development and training. But it’s not all about work. You’ll also learn things that will help you in your daily life. Our goal is to give our people a sense of pride and ownership of their workplace. Also, working with us means belonging to a social community and making long-term friendships.