Gather for Good Program Guide
Opening Plenary
9.00am to 11.00am
Building M, Level 1
Room M001
Welcome
Event MC: Sarah Franklyn, Chair, Local Impact
Keynote speaker: The Hon. Wade Noonan, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of External Relations & Partnerships, Victoria University
Morning Tea
11.00am – 11.20am
Building G, Common Area
Breakout Sessions 1
11.30am – 12.15pm
Building G, Level 2
Room G202
Mapping Community Connections
Hear from a panel of leaders and practitioners who are collating and mapping the work of local community organisations, with the goal to strengthen collaboration.
Room G207
Fundraising that Works
Delivered by a strategic fundraising expert, this session will guide participants through the development of a sustainable fundraising strategy.
Room G208
AI for not for profits
This practical session will demystify artificial intelligence and explore how NFP’s and impact-driven organisations can use AI tools to improve efficiency, communication and community impact.
Networking Lunch
12.15pm – 1.30pm
Building G, Common Area
The Asylum Seeker Resource Centre’s professional catering team comprises asylum seeker members led by an experienced group of mentor chefs. Through this model, they aim to provide pathways to further employment for people seeking asylum through education, training and hands-on work experience. catering.asrc.org.au
Breakout Sessions 2
1.30pm – 2.15pm
Building G, Level 2
Room G202
Collaboration not Competition
In a challenging funding environment, collaboration is more important than ever. This panel discussion will showcase real examples of organisations working together to share resources, strengthen impact and secure better outcomes.
Room G207
Storytelling for Impact
Effective storytelling is essential for engaging communities, and building support. This session will provide practical tips on how to communicate your organisation’s impact in a clear, authentic and compelling way.
Room G208
Mentoring that Matters
This session explores the impact of mentoring programs that are designed and delivered by community leaders.
Breakout Sessions 3
2.25pm – 3.10pm
Building G, Level 2
Room G202
Co-design in Action
When thoughtfully applied, co-design is a powerful approach to creating programs that truly meet community needs. In this interactive workshop, participants will deep-dive into examples of practical co-design methods that embed lived experience into program planning and improve outcomes.
Room G207
Not for Profit Structures 101
Choosing the right organisational structure is critical to long-term success. This session will help participants understand different NFP structures, including their benefits, limitations and key considerations for governance and growth.
Room G208
Diversifying Revenue
Sustainable organisations rely on diverse income streams. In this session, speakers will share practical insights and real-world experiences on strengthening partnerships, earned income and other revenue sources to build long-term sustainability.
Afternoon Tea
3.10pm – 3.30pm
Building G, Common Area
Flip the Pitch
3.30pm – 4.15pm
Building M, Level 1
Room M001
Flip the Pitch
Hear from our funders as they convince you which fund to apply to and where you can access their next grant round.
Closing Plenary
4.15pm – 4.30pm
Building M, Level 1
Room M001
Closing Plenary
Our event MC, Sarah Franklyn, will close today’s formal proceedings. Thank you to all our speakers for taking the time to share their experiences and insights, helping to elevate the Doing Good Community.
Networking Drinks
4.30pm – 5.45pm
Building M, VU Bar
