Civil society where we come together around a common goal. It’s where we gather with friends, colleagues, members, or neighbours to connect, play, make art, share culture, defend our rights and care for each other.

The COVID-19 pandemic, closely following the devastating 2019-20 bushfires, presented civil society – individuals, organisations and community groups – with urgent challenges and opportunities both old and new.

That is why the Paul Ramsay Foundation and the Sydney Policy Lab at the University of Sydney, in collaboration with civil society and community leaders from across Australia, are embarking on this new initiative where we share stories, learn from each other and come together to build a stronger civil society.

We are immensely grateful for an exceptional Advisory Panel who bring a wealth of perspectives, ideas, knowledge and relationships. The project is powered by a collaborative team at the Sydney Policy Lab, and fuelled by the voices, experiences and expertise of dozens of participating civil society leaders, community groups and academics, some of whom will also come together in the Reference Group that will be set up in early 2021.