Microfinance Horizon

Author: Ingrid Burkett (University of Queensland)

Abstract:

This report provides an overview of microfinance in Australia – focussing on the current realities and speculating about the future potentials of microfinance as a poverty alleviation tool. The report includes:

• A review of current literature relating to microfinance – particularly microfinance in ‘developed’ country contexts;
• A review of current microfinance initiatives in Australia; and
• An exploration of future possibilities in relation to microfinance in Australia.

The report is designed to introduce readers to the field of microfinance and provides an overview of its relevance to the Australian context. It does not involve a comprehensive empirical comparison of current or potential models, and does not suggest favouring particular models over others. Thus, though the report outlines many of the models currently used in Australia, and suggests some strengths and limitations of these models, more focused research is needed in relation to the actual and potential impacts of these models in order for effective comparisons to be made.

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