Who we are

SVA was created to solve challenging social problems. We speed-up innovation in the social sector so more people in Australia can live their best life.

As Australia’s most innovative social impact organisation, we help solve challenging social problems. 

Putting our extensive know-how to work re-designing systems. Helping institutions think differently. Working hand in hand with our partners and communities to take real action on social change. 

Our history

In 2002, The Benevolent Society, The Smith Family, Work Ventures and the AMP Foundation got together with a good idea. What if there was an organisation whose purpose was to find creative solutions to entrenched social problems and speed up the creation of innovative ideas to deliver better social outcomes?

These organisations had long histories of delivering change in our communities – so they knew about the challenges we faced to create positive change, and the tools and resources that could be used to overcome them.

They created SVA to fill this innovation gap, and ever since, we’ve been working hard at creating better outcomes for people and communities in Australia. With our partners, we’ve been able to achieve some remarkable milestones. Once other capable and well-resourced players adopt the new practice, we turn our attention to the next frontier in supporting positive change in people’s lives.

Our people

Our people

We’re passionate changemakers who are here to make a difference.

Meet our Board members Meet our Team

First Nations practice

We believe that belonging for all Australians requires specific recognition and respect of First Nations knowledge, histories and cultures. Read our commitment to First Nations peoples.

Through our Reconciliation Action Plan we seek to strengthen our vision for reconciliation. It’s underpinned by our First Nations Practice Principles, which guide our work with First Nations peoples, communities and organisations.