Community & Business
24 February, 2025
$5.6 million to help develop Aboriginal organisations and businesses across NSW
A total of 42 Aboriginal businesses and organisations will receive a share of $5.6 million to invest.
The NSW Government is providing Aboriginal businesses and organisations with business investment, skills development and training opportunities that will help them attract new customers, expand their operations and plan and prepare for the future.
A total of 42 Aboriginal businesses and organisations will receive a share of $5.6 million to invest in business mentoring and coaching, upskilling and training, the development of strategic business plans and governance frameworks, and purchasing assets to expand operations.
“Aboriginal businesses and organisations in regional NSW have a unique connection to land, culture and community, with traditional knowledge and cultural practices integrated into their businesses,” said Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty.
“Not only do Aboriginal businesses and organisations contribute to the regional local economies, but they also contribute to environmental sustainability and cultural development in regional communities,” she said.
The Aboriginal business sector in regional NSW is growing and access to training, development, and investment is vital for the success of both Aboriginal organisations and communities.
Chairperson of the NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce Deb Barwick said “Access to tailored mentoring, training and business development opportunities will allow Aboriginal businesses to strengthen their operations and expand their reach.
“This funding ensures Aboriginal businesses are equipped with the tools to build their capacity, improve governance and unlock their full potential.”
Dharra Jerky and Secret Harvest in Dubbo, Booma Food Group in Cessnock, Binjang Tea in Wellington, Deniliquin’s Barka Treats, and Native Botanical Brewery and Dream Builders on Country in the Central Coast are among the businesses who will boost production and pursue larger market opportunities through this funding.
Dharra Jerky founder Hayden Williams commented that “I started making jerky as a hobby about six years ago and I have been proud to watch it begin to bloom into something much bigger.
“This support is giving me a great opportunity to upgrade my equipment so I can take my small business to the next level.”
These growth opportunities have been made possible by $1.29 million from the NSW Government’s Regional Aboriginal Partnerships Program Round 2 and $4.33 million from the Regional Development Trust’s Aboriginal Economic Development Package.
According to a 2022 NSW Treasury report there are some 737 NSW Indigenous businesses registered with the Aboriginal procurement organisation, Supply Nation, the most of any state or territory.
Median annual revenue for these businesses is $303,000, with each employing a median full-time equivalent staff of 3.8.
The NSW Government is dedicated to closing the gap by removing barriers that hinder access to business training, mentoring and capital investment for Aboriginal people in regional NSW.
