Indigenous Business Boom: $4.2B in Wages, Regional Growth, and Major Investments Propel Future Success
October 2, 2024Indigenous businesses in Australia are experiencing significant growth, creating new opportunities for economic participation and success.
This economic participation fosters self-determination and autonomy for Indigenous people, promoting wealth-building for future generations.
In 2022, Indigenous businesses employed over 116,000 people and contributed $4.2 billion in wages, a figure comparable to Australia's timber industry.
The number of Indigenous sole traders surged from 1,889 in 2012 to 5,669 in 2022, highlighting the substantial growth potential in this sector.
Most Indigenous businesses operate outside major cities, particularly benefiting regional and remote areas.
Indigenous individuals are encouraged to pursue business opportunities, as they often possess the capability to create a better future for themselves and their communities.
A partnership between BHP and the Melbourne Business School has made a $20 million investment to support Indigenous initiatives, including the Dilin Duwa Centre for Indigenous Business Leadership.
Kim Collard, a prominent Indigenous entrepreneur, was awarded the 2024 West Australian of the Year Aboriginal Award for his contributions to Indigenous communities through his businesses and the Bibbulmun Fund.
Collard has successfully raised over $1 million for various causes, demonstrating the positive community impact of successful Indigenous entrepreneurs.
Indigenous business practices not only enhance economic participation but also enrich cultural presence and understanding within the broader Australian economy.
Summary based on 1 source
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Source
The West Australian • Sep 30, 2024
Indigenous enterprises sharing culture and closing the gap