Led by Hugh Evans - Monash University law graduate, co-founder of the GPP, international humanitarian and 2004 Young Australian of the Year - the initiative has been travelling the globe in an attempt to educate and expose audiences to the stark realities of extreme poverty.

During its two-week Australian tour, 1.4 Billion Reasons will present to people from workplaces and organisations around the country.

Evans was present at the launch, held in Minter Ellison's Brisbane office, as was David Bussau AM, co-founder of Opportunity International and Senior Australian of the Year 2008.

Special counsel Ilenna Copley, who coordinated Minter Ellison's involvement as host of the launch, said she believes Australia's corporate community has an important role to play in spreading the message about global poverty and also in being actively involved in initiatives aimed at eliminating it.

"Hugh Evans' international reputation as a humanitarian, advocate and leader of the future is both formidable and reassuring. And as a pioneer of microfinance, and in his incredible work around the world, David Bussau AM has illuminated the path out of poverty for millions," she said.

"In the daunting challenge of ending extreme poverty, both men are necessary reminders that intelligence, compassion and steadfast resolve will see the challenge accomplished."