The selection panel, chaired by Tim Fairfax, Philanthropy Australia Council member and Chairman of the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation, recognised the award-winners for their stand out achievements in enhancing giving in Australia over the past 12 months.

Other panellists included Sylvia Admans (RE Ross Trust), Sean Barrett (Origin Foundation) and Emily Massey-Greene (Philanthropy Australia’s New Generation of Giving program).

President of Philanthropy Australia, Alan Schwartz said the awards were created to recognise those who stand at the forefront of innovation in the philanthropic sector.

“Both recipients have shown a commitment to creating exciting initiatives to inspire other organisations and individuals who wish to contribute to the growth of giving in Australia,” says Schwartz.

“Through his entrepreneurial and social leadership of corporate enterprise Silver Chef Ltd, and his creation of the English Family Foundation, Alan English has become an inspiration in the sector and embodies the qualities that define philanthropic excellence including creativity, innovation, commitment and courage.”

“Meanwhile, relative newcomer Michael Gonski has achieved significant early success through his exemplary work with Sydney Story Factory and is making a critical difference as an emerging leader in the sector,” says Schwartz.

Each winner receives $5,000 in microfinance to donate to their favourite social enterprise.

The Philanthropy Leader Awards were announced at Philanthropy Australia’s national conference on 2 September.