A list of finalists has been announced for the 2016 Workplace Giving Excellence Awards, recognising the achievements of those employers and their staff who are leading the way in supporting community organisations.

BHP Billiton, JB Hi-Fi and SEEK were nominated for the Best Overall Program. While Best Launch or Refresh had Atlassian and Starbucks Coffee Australia as nominees. Give Where You Live Foundation (partnered with Ford Australia), Redkite (partnered with JB Hi-Fi), Room to Read (partnered with The Atlassian Foundation) and Stewart House (partnered with NSW Department of Education) were nominated for most innovative charity/employer partnership.

“It was inspirational to see how dedicated these organisations are to making a difference in the community. While their support starts with payroll giving donations that provide the regular funding so important to charities, they demonstrate commitment, leadership and importantly, great results,” said Andrew Young, CEO of The Centre for Social Impact and Chair of the Awards Judging Panel.

“We particularly enjoyed learning how employers are using Workplace Giving in highly creative ways that not only contribute to staff culture, but also benefit the community – which is a win-win for all involved.”

The entries were evaluated by a distinguished panel of judges with experience across corporate, philanthropic, government, community and academic sectors.

Judges include Sarah Davies, CEO of Philanthropy Australia, Lin Hatfield Dodds, Deputy Secretary, Social Policy, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Carolyn Hewson, Director of BHP Billiton Ltd. and BHP Billiton Plc, Lisa O’Brien, CEO of The Smith Family and Andrew Young, CEO of The Centre for Social Impact.