October 14, 2016
The Group of Eight (Go8) congratulates all partners involved in the Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity (AFSE) program launched by the Prime Minister today. The AFSE will see up to 25 Fellowships a year awarded for the next 20 years to advance a fairer, healthier, more resilient and inclusive society.
Go8 Chief Executive, Vicki Thomson, said that the program that targets a new generation of leaders and change agents across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific is an exemplar of how universities, Government, philanthropic foundations, business and not-for-profits can collaborate to change our world.
“Led by the University of Melbourne and in partnership with the Queensland University of Technology and the University of Auckland, the AFSE has been established by a $50 million USD grant from The Atlantic Philanthropies, with $40 million AUD in Commonwealth support over the life of the 20-year program.”
“Social equity issues are heartland territory for all Australian universities. We are committed to improving the life of those in our communities and in our region through both the impact of our research and the future leaders we educate – but we cannot do it alone.”
“Today’s announcement shows just what is possible through collaboration and the Go8 looks forward to both the success of AFSE and future university collaborations driving social equity.”
“Once again, I congratulate the universities, government, Atlantic Philanthropies and other organisations such as the Business Council of Australia, Brother of St Laurence and Jawun all of whom are contributing to this fantastic program.”
Contact: Vicki Thomson, Group of Eight Chief Executive on +61 438 047 155
