Funding announcement - SDEI Grant

We’re proud to share that SisterWorks has been awarded a $120,000 grant through the Social Development Enterprise Initiative (SDEI) grant from the Department of Social Services (DSS). This funding will directly support women from migrant, refugee, and asylum-seeking backgrounds in Melbourne’s South-East.

The SDEI was announced in the 2023–24 Budget as part of the Targeting Entrenched Disadvantage package, with $11.6 million committed to strengthening the social enterprise sector across Australia. The initiative is designed to help social enterprises become more efficient and impactful in delivering social benefits to vulnerable Australians.

As part of this initiative, eligible social enterprises were awarded up to $120,000 in funding to grow their business, scale their impact, and further their mission of supporting people experiencing disadvantage.

With this capability-building grant, SisterWorks will expand our Employment Pathways Program and Manufacturing Hub, which provide women with the skills, training, and confidence needed to find employment, break the cycle of disadvantage, and build financial independence.

Assistant Minister for Social Security, Ageing and Women, Kate Thwaites, emphasised the importance of social enterprises like SisterWorks in supporting communities:

"We want all Australians, including women from migrant and refugee backgrounds, to thrive, and social enterprises play a critical role in combating entrenched disadvantage within these communities."

Federal Member for Bruce and Assistant Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, Julian Hill, also highlighted the significance of SisterWorks’ impact in the region:

"SisterWorks does such important work providing women in our community with the skills they need to gain employment and financial independence.

"The SisterWorks Empowerment Hub right here in Dandenong is an incredible resource. I've seen firsthand the impact it has had on thousands of local women from refugee and migrant backgrounds as they settle into Australia.

"This essential funding will allow SisterWorks to expand their program even further, helping women from across Victoria set themselves up for their future"

This grant marks a significant step forward in our mission to empower women through economic independence, community connection, and meaningful employment. We’re honoured by this recognition and grateful for the opportunity to continue delivering programs that create lasting change.

Read the official media release from the Department of Social Services:
Social Enterprise Capability Building Grants announced