As a special initiative of the UN Secretary-General, the United Nations Global Compact is the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, with over 20,000 participating business and 3,800 non-business organisations based in over 160 countries and 69 Local Networks. Endorsed by chief executives globally, the UN Global Compact supports companies to:
- Do business responsibly by aligning their strategies and operations with Ten Principles on human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption.
- Take strategic actions to advance societal goals — such as the Sustainable Development Goals — with an emphasis on collaboration and innovation.
The UN Global Compact Network Australia
The UN Global Compact Network Australia (UNGCNA) is the Australian, business-led network of the UN Global Compact.
As the principal sustainability initiative in Australia, the UNGCNA brings together participants of the UN Global Compact, including a number of Australia’s leading companies, civil society organisations and universities, to advance responsible business and the private sector’s contribution to sustainable development.
We lead, enable and connect business and stakeholders to create a sustainable future by acting responsibly and finding opportunity for positive impact. Our activities guide businesses on how a principles-based approach to doing business that advances the Ten Principles and contributes to sustainable development drives long-term business success. We do this by providing a platform for dialogue, learning, influence and action that is practical and leading edge.
The UNGCNA is recognised as a trusted convener and adviser on responsible and sustainable business practices by sustainability practitioners. We provide business with a meeting point to share and build best practice and connect with networks and experts in Australia.
The UNGCNA also engages with government around policy, and in 2015 announced a significant partnership with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade aimed at engaging the private sector in sustainable development.
Purpose
We empower business to act responsibly, set a positive example and create a sustainable future.
Mission
We lead, enable and connect business and stakeholders to create a sustainable future by acting responsibly and finding opportunity for positive impact.
Governance
UN Global Compact Local Networks
In order to advance the UN Global Compact, its principles and engagement platforms, signatories to the initiative have established Local Networks in over 70 countries around the world. Local Networks perform the important role of bringing the UN Global Compact to different national, cultural and linguistic contexts. Local Networks also facilitate the progress of companies engaged in the UN Global Compact through their activities and create opportunities for multi-stakeholder engagement and collective action.
Local Networks have input into the activities of the UN Global Compact headquarters through several channels, including regular calls with the Asia-Oceania region and interaction with the Regional Network Council.
Local Networks act in accordance with the principles and objectives of the UN Global Compact and provide regular reports to the UN Global Compact head office in accordance with a Memorandum of Understanding. Local Networks are otherwise self-governing.
UN Global Compact Network Australia
The UN Global Compact Network Australia Ltd is the Australian Local Network of the UN Global Compact. It is a not-for-profit organisation, incorporated under Australian law as a public company limited by guarantee. The UN Global Compact Network Australia has a fully constituted Board of Directors elected by members. Read our Constitution here.
Reports
The following UN Global Compact Network Australia reports are available for download:
2023 Impact Report
2023 Directors’ Report and Financial Statements
2022 Annual Report
2022 Directors’ Report and Financial Statements
2021 Annual Report
2021 Directors’ Report and Financial Statements
2020 Annual Report
2020 Directors’ Report and Financial Statements
2019 Annual Report
2019 Directors’ Report and Financial Statements
2018 Annual Report
2018 Directors’ Report and Financial Statements
2017 Annual Report
2017 Directors’ Report and Financial Statements
2016 Annual Report
2016 Directors’ Report & Financial Statements
2015 Annual Report
2014 Annual Report
2013 Annual Report
2012 Annual Report
2012 Financial Report