Ask the experts

An experienced executive leader in the for-purpose sector focussed on social impact, social business and partnering for purpose, Emily Milton Smith is the Engagement Manager, NSW/ACT at OzHarvest. We spoke to her about the value of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in Australia and the opportunity to include CSR activities into an incentive program.

How would you describe corporate social responsibility (CSR) in Australia?

CSR has really evolved beyond traditional philanthropy to hands-on community engagement, driven by a company’s values and brand reputation. At OzHarvest, we see businesses increasingly wanting authentic experiences that create real impact. Australian companies are seeking partnerships where their teams can actively contribute. This shift toward experiential giving allows employees to witness firsthand how their efforts translate into meals for vulnerable Australians, creating deeper connection and purpose.

How can business events planners incorporate CSR into their Australian program?

It's all about making it seamless and meaningful. Look for partners who can integrate purpose into existing event formats - whether that's adding volunteer components to team building activities, choosing venues that support social causes, incorporating educational elements into conferences, or by offering a donation. The key is finding authentic experiences where teams can really see a direct social impact in their communities.

What opportunities are there for incentive groups to have hands-on experiences that create social impact?

There are so many opportunities, and I think it's about finding activities that resonate with your team and align with your company's values. This could be swapping team dinners to a for-purpose restaurant, rolling up your sleeves on a community project, or rethinking activities to give back. At OzHarvest, we see teams light up when they're doing something meaningful - whether that's rescuing food or cooking meals together for people in need.

Tell us about the types of CSR experiences incentive groups can tailor with OzHarvest across Australia.

We have multiple opportunities for corporations to get involved at OzHarvest. Our flagship Cooking for a Cause combines team building with meal preparation for vulnerable communities - groups cook meals together that are delivered directly to local charities. The Refettorio OzHarvest Sydney offers private dining experiences where surplus ingredients become gourmet meals, available for breakfast, lunch, or dinner events. Our Food Truck and Catering brings zero-waste dining to any location, and every booking helps us feed communities in need. Lunch and Learn sessions educate teams about food waste solutions. Groups can join our van runs rescuing good food or volunteer at our markets, helping prevent waste while providing great customer service.

How does corporate social responsibility also intersect with opportunities for guests to witness sustainability practices?

At OzHarvest, we believe in a future where no one goes hungry and where food is valued and not wasted.  This mission directly addresses UN Sustainable Development Goals - Zero Hunger, Responsible Consumption, and Climate Action. During Cooking for a Cause sessions, guests learn how rescued food becomes nutritious meals, witnessing the circular economy in action. Our Refettorio showcases how surplus ingredients transform into restaurant-quality dining. Food rescue volunteering reveals the scale of food waste and immediate solutions. Guests see sustainability as practical community action, not abstract concepts.

What are some of the business events venues that OzHarvest works with around Australia?

ICC Sydney works with OzHarvest for food rescue - our volunteers collect surplus food after events to create community meals. We collaborate with Adelaide Oval and Optus Stadium Perth, rescuing match-day food surplus. These food rescue relationships demonstrate how major venues can eliminate waste while feeding communities. Event planners can choose venues knowing their surplus food will directly support vulnerable Australians rather than going to landfill, adding meaningful impact to their corporate gatherings.

Are there hotels across Australia that partner with OzHarvest for sustainable social impact?

IHG Hotels and Resorts is one of our “Awesome Partners” at OzHarvest, and their "Stay for Good" initiatives create ongoing food rescue efforts across their properties. We work closely with IHG Hotels and Resorts to create staff volunteering opportunities. Partnerships like this mean event planners can choose accommodation knowing their venue actively contributes to community impact programs.

How can incentive groups create a lasting impact for Australia’s social impact industry?

The groups that really make a difference are the ones who think beyond just one event. Incentive planners can book a Cooking for a Cause program each time they hold a program in Australia, or choose OzHarvest catering for their events, so every meeting or celebration is contributing to feeding people. When companies weave us or other for-purpose organisations into their program planning rather than just doing a one-off, that’s when they are making a sustained impact in the community.

What’s new for OzHarvest in 2025? 

We're so excited about our CEO CookOff this year! It's a fantastic way for business leaders to get hands-on with our mission and support people in need within their local communities. We've also expanded our Cooking for a Cause program with exciting new offerings like "After Dark" sessions, creating more even ways for corporate teams to get involved. It's all about finding fresh approaches to engage businesses in meaningful social impact through hands-on experiences.