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Highlights
WA Government reintroduces Aboriginal Business Leadership Initiative for the Goldfields-Esperance region
Program aims to develop leadership capabilities in Indigenous entrepreneurs and start-ups
Initiative aligns with broader goals of inclusive economic participation in regional Western Australia
Western Australia’s government has recommitted its support for Indigenous enterprise through the relaunch of its Aboriginal Business Leadership Initiative, aiming to boost First Nations entrepreneurship in the Goldfields-Esperance region. This region plays a key role in the state’s resources and energy footprint and sits within the broader All Ordinaries index landscape, where many mining and infrastructure firms operate.
The initiative marks its return since its previous delivery in the earlier part of the decade, with a renewed focus on leadership development for Aboriginal businesses across regional Western Australia.
Funding Earmarked to Empower Regional Aboriginal Entrepreneurs
The government has committed financial backing for the upcoming rollout of the program in the Goldfields-Esperance area. An experienced Aboriginal service provider will oversee the implementation of the 2025–26 edition, selected by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and the Goldfields-Esperance Development Commission.
This tailored program is designed to meet the distinct needs of regional Aboriginal business leaders by offering mentorship and skills development tailored to cultural, economic, and industry contexts in remote and regional areas.
Long-Term Support Reinforces Entrepreneurial Momentum
Since the first rollout of this initiative in 2017, the state government has supported numerous Aboriginal businesses across diverse WA regions including the Mid West, Wheatbelt, Great Southern, South West, and Gascoyne.
Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson highlighted the structure of the program, noting its ability to deliver customised regional versions alongside continued business development and mentorship support over a six-month period. He underlined the importance of nurturing leadership within the Indigenous business ecosystem as a long-term economic enabler.
Building Skills, Culture, and Networks in WA's Indigenous Economy
Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch echoed support for the program, noting its previous effectiveness in developing business acumen, strategic knowledge, and operational networks among Aboriginal leaders.
According to the Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia’s recent Diversity and Inclusion report, representation of Indigenous Australians in leadership roles across the sector has improved steadily. The report acknowledged the efforts being made to foster cultural safety and mutual collaboration between Indigenous communities and the resources sector.
