A current research project at the Melbourne Social Equity Institute is exploring the use of a gender lens in philanthropic partnerships that support housing for disadvantaged women. A gender lens is a way of examining or analysing a particular issue, policy, or practice by considering the ways in which gender identities, roles, and norms affect it. This approach aims to identify and address gender-based inequalities and injustices by recognising that gender is a fundamental social and cultural construct that intersects with other forms of identity, such as race, class, and sexuality.
The research project is being undertaken by an interdisciplinary team – Dr Alexandra Williamson, Professor Kylie Smith, Dr Victor Sojo and Professor Jo Barraket – at the University of Melbourne, in partnership with Australians Investing in Women. It aims to understand how philanthropic organisations can best incorporate a gender lens into their housing initiatives. To do this, the researchers are conducting two case studies in mid-2023 on philanthropic partnerships with nonprofit organisations and others, examining the approaches and strategies they use.
The literature, both academic and professional, suggests that by applying a gender lens such partnerships can better address the unique challenges faced by women. The research project will consider the gender-lens models and strategies adopted and explore the involvement of women tenants in the design and implementation of housing initiatives.
The in-depth case studies will examine partnership processes, with the aim of encouraging and empowering the actors in partnerships to find appropriate solutions to the specific challenges they face, building on the experiences and insights gleaned from others. By taking an intersectional approach that recognises gender as one of many forms of disadvantage, these partnerships can be more effective in creating long-term, sustainable solutions to address housing insecurity.
You can find more: Philanthropic Partnerships Supporting Housing
Centre régional
Axe de Recherche
- Axe 4 : Philanthropie et justice sociale
Superviseur(s)
- Dr Alexandra Williamson
The University of Melbourne
Membres de l'équipe
- Professor Jo Barraket
The University of Melbourne - Dr Victor Sojo
The University of Melbourne - Professor Kylie Smith
The University of Melbourne
Début du projet
- 19 Avril 2023