Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) has announced a transformation agenda in its latest corporate plan, setting the stage for a bold reimagining of its strategic priorities and capabilities over the next five years.
With the refreshed leadership of a new Chairman, several new Board members, and new CEO, Mr David Knights, IBA is set to uplift Indigenous-led economies with a transformation into a value added, specialist capital provider.
A proud descendent of the Kokoberren peoples, IBA Chairman Mr Darren Godwell said: “This year’s corporate plan pivots IBA to the economic opportunities, leveraging capital markets, and offer direct support to Indigenous economic self-sufficiency. It’s not just about growth—it’s about transformation.”
The plan emphasises the importance of advancing economic self-sufficiency with First Nations individuals, businesses, and Nations. It focusses on areas of scale and commercial outcomes, ensuring First Nations people benefit from emerging opportunities in:
IBA’s new legislative powers constitute a transformation. It expands IBA reach to new sources of capital. IBA is working closely with the Minister for Indigenous Australians and Finance Minister to determine the parameters (the ‘Rules’) under which it will be able to exercise these new powers.
IBA will commence a new function responsible for large transactions and projects that advance the commercial and economic interests of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It will increase access for First Nations communities to access finance and major project facilitation services at scale.
The plan commits to partnering with First Nations organisations, government bodies, and private sector allies to ensure that the transformation is appropriately executed. It will involve connecting more First Nations interests with capital markets to build economic self-sufficiency, and prosperity. The plan actions strategic objectives that boosts business supports, and delivers initiatives announced in the 2025–26 Budget including:
“As the Indigenous-led economy grows, the expanded legislative powers position IBA to leverage the private sector and capital markets in innovative ways.”
You can find IBA’s current and previous plans on its website under Corporate Documents - Indigenous Business Australia.
Media contact: Katie Hoskins 0427 011 938 or katie.hoskins@iba.gov.au
About IBA
Economic independence for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is at the heart of what we do. Our programs support Indigenous Australians to buy their own homes, be successful in business, and invest in commercial ventures that provide strong financial returns. IBA was established under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (ATSI Act) and is a corporate Commonwealth entity for the purposes of the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (PGPA Act). IBA resides in the portfolio of the Prime Minister and Cabinet and is accountable to the Australian Parliament through the Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator the Hon Malarndirri McCarthy.
The Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr David Knights as Chief Executive Officer, effective 22 August 2025.
David brings more than 25 years of global, multi-industry experience across banking, superannuation, management consulting, and engineering. His extensive executive leadership at National Australia Bank—spanning roles in strategy, client solutions, asset servicing, and technology modernisation—demonstrates his ability to drive transformation and deliver sustainable outcomes in complex environments. His earlier career as a management consultant with Bevington Consulting further shaped his strategic acumen and stakeholder engagement capabilities.
David is also a seasoned board director, currently serving as a Non-Executive Director of the Traditional Credit Union, and previously as Chair of NAB Nominees Ltd and the Australian Custodial Services Association. These roles reflect his deep commitment to governance and financial stewardship, particularly in contexts aligned with Indigenous economic empowerment.
IBA Chair, Mr Darren Godwell MHK FAIIA said: “On behalf of the IBA Board and staff, I’m delighted to welcome David Knights as IBA’s new Chief Executive Officer. His decades of multi-industry experience and extensive executive leadership will be crucial as IBA embarks on an exciting new era under our legislative change and seeks to expand our impact into the self-management and economic self-sufficiency of Indigenous people. David’s inclusive leadership and passion for digital innovation will be instrumental in achieving this.”
“Under David’s guidance, IBA will continue to advance the commercial and economic interests of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, contributing to the accumulation of a substantial capital asset base for the unprecedented economic development of our communities across Australia.”
Newly appointed IBA Chief Executive Officer David Knight said: “It’s an honour to lead Indigenous Business Australia at such a pivotal time. IBA’s legacy of empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through economic opportunity is one I deeply respect and am committed to advancing.”
“Economic self-determination is central to long-term prosperity. I’m proud to join an organisation that champions Indigenous entrepreneurship, home ownership, and investment, building a stronger future for First Nations people and for Australia.”
Media contact: Katie Hoskins 02 9207 6362 or katie.hoskins@iba.gov.au
Indigenous Business Australia’s (IBA’s) submission to the Treasurer’s Economic Reform Roundtable reveals how the First Nations ‘demographic dividend’ can boost Australia’s productivity by increasing labour force participation and enhancing innovation.
The submission provides data and modelling centred around three drivers of economic prosperity – Population, Participation and Productivity. The submission reveals that when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are included in economic decision-making and have access to critical levers, their contributions can boost Australia’s economic prospects.
IBA Chair, Mr Darren Godwell MHK FAIIA, released the submission stating, “The case couldn’t be stronger for recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as a driver of Australia’s future prosperity.”
“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people could make up between 4-7% of the Australian population in 20 years.
“The proportion of First Nations people within the prime working ages of 20-54 years could increase by 57% over that time.
“First Nations people with a tertiary qualification have not just closed the employment gap, their employment rates are higher than non-Indigenous tertiary qualified people.
“The growth in education could mean First Nations people add over $53 billion extra to the Australian economy over 20 years. And those gains will compound over the next few decades.”
While the First Nations participation rate remained the same between 2016 and 2021, the proportion of working age employed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people increased from 47% to 50%.
“In contrast to the rest of the country, which is rapidly ageing, the youthful First Nations population will provide a growing source of economic vitality. Indeed, the number of First Nations tertiary-qualified graduates in employment could increase to over 87,000 in a decade,” Mr Godwell notes.
“Those workers, entrepreneurs and leaders will provide new energy, and draw on ancient knowledge to create cultural renewal, economic participation and Indigenous-led innovation.
“And with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people having an interest or ownership stake in over 50% of Australia’s landmass – over 80% in the north – First Nations people must have a seat at the economic table.”
FIRST NATIONS TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE: AN INNOVATION REVOLUTION
The submission reveals how the greatest benefits for Australia will come from First Nations people using traditional knowledge, systems and frameworks to drive the next stage of Australian innovation.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander traditional knowledge provides place-based insights about how to live in partnership with Country, to ensure it continues to provide – not just for this generation – but for at least seven generations ahead.
“Ancient First Nations frameworks for thinking about the world offer new ways for non-First Nations people to consider our activities, particularly through a sustainability lens that focuses on the role of maintaining and Caring for Country,” said Mr Godwell.
REFORMS ARE NEEDED
IBA’s submission calls for three policy reforms that can shape the direction of Australia’s productivity and sustainability story in a manner that is consistent with the task as put by the Treasurer:
Mr Godwell said, “First Nations leaders and their responsibilities as Lore Men and Lore Women are in the best position to determine how to successfully unlock greater productivity potential within the Indigenous estate.
“But that requires greater respect to be accorded to them, their position and their knowledge. Only through their guidance can we find ways forward to shape the nature and terms of economic activity on Country.
“Doing so would promote investment certainty, boost economic investment decisions, reduce the time drag on development pipelines, reduce development friction, and advance the national interest.”
HOW IBA WILL HELP
Every year, IBA is supplying hundreds of millions of dollars to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to meet their aspirations and contribute to the Australian economy.
“IBA has a proud history of providing inclusive, equitable, and fair access to capital and finance.”
Mr Godwell noted the latest 2024-25 performance was pleasing. “I’m glad to say that IBA supplied $291.6 million to 583 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families to get into home ownership. That’s over 1,300 more First Nations people in a home that provides greater safety, security and builds intergenerational wealth.
“Over the last 50 years, IBA’s home ownership program has supported over 22,000 First Nations families buy their own home.
“IBA also issued $77.2 million in finance to 172 Indigenous businesses who are invigorating the Australian economy through their innovative ideas and creating employment, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. In addition, 185 Indigenous entrepreneurs received business support to build their capability and 866 budding businesspeople attended our business workshops.
“The number of Indigenous business owners reached an estimated 29,200 in 2021. IBA is proud of its legacy of supporting over half the growth in the Indigenous business sector over the last few years.”
The Government successfully passed IBA’s new legislative powers in late 2024, allowing IBA to secure more capital, boosting more First Nations communities through our supported finance model.
Mr Godwell said, “We welcomed the historic amendments to IBA’s enabling legislation – the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act. The change enhances our ability to leverage capital and support more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander in realising their dreams and aspirations. By scaling up capabilities and investments, IBA will be ready to meet rising demand and drive lasting economic progress.
“It’s an exciting time to be in the business of First Nations economic development. IBA is at the right place at the right time to make a real difference.”
Media contact: Tara Toohill 0427 011 938 or tara.toohill@iba.gov.au
Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) partnered with Empower Digital to launch a new Digital Catalyst Program. The bold initiative is designed to equip Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service-based businesses with the digital tools, confidence, and support to thrive in today’s online economy.
This hands-on program offers a unique blend of business planning, AI training, website development, and digital marketing strategy – all delivered in a culturally safe and supportive environment.
The first cohort launches in August 2025 in Toowoomba Queensland, with two more cohorts planned through early 2026 (locations TBD). The 3-phase approach supports businesses in a multi-faceted way by starting with online prep, then in-person training, and ends with online support through workshops and 1-on-1 sessions.
The program is designed to ensure participants are set up for success, with a strong focus on long-term economic empowerment. By building digital capability and fostering innovation, leadership, and self-determination, it equips First Nations businesses with the tools they need to thrive in a competitive and evolving marketplace.
IBA’s recent Pathways Through Business report illustrates the incredible growth in the First Nations sector over the last decade. Deputy CEO Sean Armistead adds that it’s programs like the Digital Catalyst Program that will continue to support this trend.
“With the right digital tools, the impact that First Nations businesses contribute will only grow. The Digital Catalyst Program is focused on building the skills and confidence First Nations business owners need to grow sustainably and compete in a digital world,” says Sean.
“Digital capability is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. When we invest in these skills, we are investing in the future of our communities.
“IBA is proud to support a program that empowers First Nations businesses to lead, innovate, and thrive on their own terms. It creates a ripple effect of opportunity, resilience, and self-determination.”
According to the Digital Catalyst Program by Empower Digital, “46% of Google searches in Australia are for local business information.” This highlights the importance of having a strong online presence, especially for First Nations businesses aiming to grow and develop in this space."
Co-founders of Empower Digital as well as a husband/wife duo, Adam and Carmel Wooding, note that with 46% of Google searches in Australia focused on local business information, having a strong online presence is essential.
"Digital capability in today’s world is no longer optional – it’s a gateway to growth, opportunity and self-determination,” said co-founders of Empower Digital.
“We’re so excited to partner with IBA and for the opportunity to walk alongside First Nations businesses as they grow stronger online and in their communities. The Digital Catalyst Program empowers participants with the tools, training and support to thrive on their own terms."
Applications now open for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses to become a digital catalyst for their business and community. For more information, visit us at Empower Digital – Digital Catalyst Program.
Media contact: Tara Toohill, 0427 011 938 or tara.toohill@iba.gov.au
Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) is proud to announce its partnership with New Dream Productions, founded by proud Badtjala man David Cook, to launch a special IBA series of “The New Dreaming Podcast”.
As one of the first initiatives under IBA's new support network for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men, this partnership aims to empower economic independence among First Nations men by creating a powerful platform for truth-telling.
The New Dreaming podcast provides a space for real, meaningful conversations that empower, challenge, and inspire. Through the voices of those who have broken barriers, found their purpose, and reclaimed their stories, the podcast uncovers the truths that shape Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
IBA Deputy CEO Sean Armistead said, “This initiative grew from meaningful conversations within Galambany, our Indigenous staff network, where the need for more support for First Nations men in business came through strongly. This work is a direct response to those voices. It supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men as they navigate their own paths to economic independence.
“Partnering with New Dream Productions was a powerful way to begin this journey through a podcast that holds space for First Nations men. It brings awareness to the silent struggles some of our men are facing and creates a safe space for them to share and be heard.”
Managing Director David Cook said, “New Dream Productions is proud to partner with IBA on an important project that spotlights the voices of mob who are reshaping the future, story by story.”
“This podcast is about truth-telling, inspiration and the power of First Nations leadership. Backed by IBA’s belief in our vision, we’re creating a space for those voices to lead the conversation.”
Be part of the movement. Subscribe to The New Dreaming Podcast on YouTube and join the conversation that’s shaping the future of First Nations men in business.
Media contact: Tara Toohill 02 9207 6362 or tara.toohill@iba.gov.au
Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) launched its fourth impact report at an event on Gadigal Country (Sydney NSW) on Thursday 29 May 2025.
Joined by IBA’s Board Director Josh Gilbert and a panel of customers and research partners, IBA celebrated the compelling findings.
The research was completed in collaboration with Yindyamarra Consultancy, Lonergan Research, and Kowa Collaboration. It included an online survey for an extended reach across metropolitan, regional, and remote areas as well as community consultation across five case study locations.
The specific case study locations include Dharug (Western Sydney, NSW), Ngurraiillam (Shepparton/Goulburn Valley, VIC), Kaiwalagal and Badu (Torres Strait Islands, QLD), Ngarluma (Karratha & Ieramugadu, Pilbara, WA), and Mparntwe (Alice Springs, NT).
The new report is the latest in a series of groundbreaking studies into the impact of IBA’s activities.
The theme of the latest report is ‘pathways to financial wellbeing’ which explores what wellbeing means for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and how IBA’s activities support financial wellbeing.
Results note a wide range of positive impacts including a sense of pride, safety, self-confidence, security, community wellbeing, cultural practice, and inspiration to have dreams for the future.
Stories shared at the launch event by the inspiring panel of speakers highlighted the impacts they experienced to their own financial wellbeing journey. And the report includes quotes from a variety of others positively impacted.
Worimi man and IBA Board Director Josh Gilbert notes the impacts to First Nations community.
“The report confirms that Country, culture, and community are important determinants of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s wellbeing.
“Home and business ownership contribute to wealth-building and stability, fostering stronger community ties and the freedom to practice and promote culture. It helps people to become financially stable, safe and secure, build a future for their family and children, be independent, and have more control over their life.
“By fostering financial wellbeing, we provide meaningful support that empowers individuals and strengthens communities.”
IBA Acting CEO Shanti Rama adds, “We measure the impact of our programs and services by asking our customers how they define success from their own perspective.
“The report shows that our customers experience markedly higher financial wellbeing compared to the broader Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population.
“Importantly, these positive wellbeing outcomes continue even after customers leave IBA's programs.
“IBA’s impact reports show that when capital is distributed in a targeted way, it has a significant positive impact on the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.”
The new report comes on the back of recent changes to IBA’s enabling legislation, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005, removing the restriction on IBA borrowing and raising money (note: the Rules governing the scope of IBA’s power to borrow and raise money are still to be determined and need to be agreed by the both the Minister for Indigenous Australians and Finance Minister).
The change will enhance IBA’s ability to leverage its asset base to support more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in achieving their dreams of home ownership, business enterprise, and community investment. It will provide IBA with the flexibility to explore new opportunities and expand the range of financial products it can offer to meet market needs.
Find the IBA Impact Report 2024 and the ‘Highlights’ version to view and download from the IBA website, as well as the previous impact reports: IBA Impact Report 2024 - Indigenous Business Australia.
Media contact: Tara Toohill 02 9207 6362 or tara.toohill@iba.gov.au
Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) escalates a strong community focus with the latest updates to the IBA Board including the reappointment of Josh Gilbert and escalation of Olga Havnen to Deputy Chairperson.
Western Arrernte woman Olga Havnen was escalated to Deputy Chairperson after her appointment to the IBA Board in December 2025. Olga has significant board experience as Director of the Justice Reform Initiative and previously as a director of the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation, Clontarf Foundation and Stars Foundation. She has also had leadership roles in important community-facing organisations, including CEO of the Danila Dilba Health Service.
Olga grew up in Tennant Creek, Northern Territory and is a strong advocate for culturally safe care for Indigenous Australians. She was nominated for NT Australian of the Year in 2022. With significant expertise in strategic management, public sector leadership, and advocacy for social justice, Olga combines her passions with her commitment to positive change.
Worimi man Josh Gilbert was reappointed as board director, continuing his commitment on the board since April 2022. Josh is the Indigenous Co-Chair of Reconciliation NSW. He is an entrepreneur and business advisor, working predominantly in the Aboriginal culture, agriculture and environmental spheres. Josh pursues transformation through modern truth-telling, bringing new concepts to the forefront through acknowledgement of the past.
A farmer and academic, Josh is undertaking higher degree research at Charles Sturt University and was recently recognised within the world’s top 50 young gastronomers. He has worked with numerous not-for-profits, businesses and the government to develop change and bring people on a journey of change. His work seeks to connect traditional Aboriginal knowledge and history to current contexts, translating past wisdom and learning to future opportunities.
IBA Chairperson and descendant of the Kokoberren peoples of Cape York, Darren Godwell, acknowledges the importance of a strong Indigenous board with diverse skills to represent the vision of IBA.
“Bringing together a diverse board of community members that have their own individual expertise along with a mix of corporate skills will leverage IBA to the next stage in our delivery to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
“Community comes first for Indigenous Australians and we understand that it’s not one view that will solve the puzzle but bringing together multiple of strengths to support a common goal.”
Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy congratulated the appointees and looks forward to working with them to advance the economic empowerment of First Nations people.
“I am confident that this new-look board will help deliver the Albanese Government’s drive for greater economic empowerment for First Nations people.
“Collectively this board balances a wealth of expertise with fresh perspectives. The experience of the Board will be beneficial to IBA as it enacts the recent expansion of its role and remit.”
In addition to these important community appointments, Minister McCarthy brought a wealth of additional corporate knowledge to the IBA Board with the appointment of Dr Doug McTaggart FAICD and Torres Strait Islander Meriam man Brian Bero.
Media contact: Tara Toohill 02 9207 6362 or tara.toohill@iba.gov.au
Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) is proud to announce the appointment of Dr Doug McTaggart FAICD and Mr Brian Bero to its Board of Directors.
Dr Doug McTaggart's extensive experience and distinguished career in economics, finance, and governance will significantly enhance IBA's strategic direction and commitment to economic empowerment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Dr McTaggart holds a PhD in Economics from the University of Chicago and has held prominent roles across academia, public service, and the corporate sector. His tenure as CEO of the Queensland Investment Corporation saw the organisation achieve remarkable growth and diversification. Dr McTaggart's leadership was instrumental in navigating complex economic landscapes and driving sustainable financial performance.
In addition to his executive experience, Dr McTaggart has served on numerous boards, including the Suncorp Group, Spark Infrastructure, and the QIMR Berghofer Institute of Medical Research. His deep understanding of economic principles, coupled with his strategic vision, positions him as a valuable asset to the IBA Board.
Meriam man Brian Bero joins Dr McTaggart on appointment to IBA. Mr Bero brings his commercial and corporate legal knowledge along with his community experience to a strong majority Indigenous board. Brian is a co-founder and Principal Lawyer of Jaramer Legal, a national Indigenous owned commercial and corporate law firm. He has worked as a lawyer for government, large corporations and big law firms, and continues to advise all levels of government, corporations, and Indigenous organisations in his current capacity at Jaramer Legal. He has specific experience in the clean energy, telecommunications and information technology industries as well as general commercial law.
Mr Bero is passionate about Indigenous self-empowerment and socially responsible economic development for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. He is currently a director on the Boards of Aboriginal Community Housing Ltd, Ilbijerri Theatre Company and Original Power. Mr Bero is also a member of the First Nations Clean Energy Network, Panel Advisory member for the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), and Panel Advisory member for the First Nations Trade Unit under DFAT.
The Australian Senate recently passed a historic change to IBA’s legislation, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005, which allows IBA to expand its lending and finance opportunities to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to meet growing demand. Dr McTaggart worked as part of IBA’s Expert Panel for this significant change and has also been a board member of IBA Asset Management Pty Ltd, demonstrating his expertise in the agency’s growing investment space.
IBA Chairperson, Darren Godwell, comments on the new appointment and skills it brings to the IBA Board.
"We are delighted to welcome Dr Doug McTaggart and Mr Brian Bero to the IBA Board of Directors. Their profound expertise in economics and governance, along with their commitment to fostering economic opportunities for First Nations Australians, will be invaluable as we continue to support Indigenous businesses and communities."
Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy congratulated the appointees and looks forward to working with them to advance the economic empowerment of First Nations people.
“I am confident that this new-look board will help deliver the Albanese Government’s drive for greater economic empowerment for First Nations people.
“Collectively this board balances a wealth of expertise with fresh perspectives. The experience of the Board will be beneficial to IBA as it enacts the recent expansion of its role and remit.”
Dr McTaggart’s and Mr Bero’s appointments coincide with the strong community focus on the reappointment of Director Josh Gilbert, and escalation of Olga Havnen to Deputy Chairperson.
Media contact: Tara Toohill 02 9207 6362 or tara.toohill@iba.gov.au
Reproduced from Minister for Indigenous Australians media centre, released 27 March 2025.
The Albanese Government has appointed two new directors to the Board of Indigenous Business Australia (IBA).
Mr Brian Bero and Dr Doug McTaggart both bring extensive experience to their new roles.
Mr Bero is a Meriam (Torres Strait Islander) man. He is a Co-founder, Principal and Director of Jaramer Legal and has worked as a lawyer with the Victorian Government Solicitor’s Office, Gilbert + Tobin, and several large corporations such as Qantas, Telstra and Oracle.
Dr McTaggart has extensive government and private board experience, and is currently Chair of Indigenous Business Australia Asset Management.
Ms Olga Havnen – a Western Arrernte woman who joined the IBA Board in December 2024 – has been appointed Deputy Chairperson, and Mr Joshua Gilbert, a Worimi man, has been reappointed as Director.
IBA plays a critical role in advancing the economic independence of First Nations people through expert business advice, home loans, tailored finance solutions and investment initiatives that empower individuals and businesses.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy:
“I congratulate Mr Bero, Dr McTaggart, Ms Havnen and Mr Gilbert on their appointments and I look forward to working with them to advance the economic empowerment of First Nations people.
“I am confident that this new-look board will help deliver the Albanese Government’s drive for greater economic empowerment for First Nations people.
“Collectively this board balances a wealth of expertise with fresh perspectives. The experience of the Board will be beneficial to IBA as it enacts the recent expansion of its role and remit.”
Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) and the Australian International Documentary Conference (AIDC) are excited to announce the winners of the inaugural Indigenous Creators Pitch announced last night in Melbourne at the AIDC Awards ceremony.
An initiative of AIDC’s Indigenous Creators Program, the Indigenous Creators Pitch provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander filmmakers with the opportunity to pitch a project in development to a closed room of local and international buyers looking to support Indigenous-led nonfiction stories.
Selected by an independent panel of industry experts, the winning project was set to receive a $5,000 cash prize presented by AIDC to help bring their story to screen. An anonymous donor doubled the prize amount on the day of the AIDC Awards, making a prize pool of $10,000 available. The prize was shared between three projects:
CRYSTAL LOVE – $5,000
Pitch Team: Libby Collins and Genevieve Grieves
Logline: Crystal Love is a powerhouse, thriving in the face of everything life has thrown at her.
HUNTING TIDDA STYLE – $2,500
Pitch Team: Kate ten Buuren, Kimberley Benjamin and Jodie Bell
Logline: Emily Wurramara travels across so-called Australia to meet some of the country’s deadliest Blak women hunters, to learn their ways of hunting, fishing and cooking up a feed!
ABOLISHED – $2,500
Pitch Team: Daniel King and Jen Mellander
Logline: This documentary investigates the abolishment of all the Indigenous representative bodies since 1967, uncovering what this pattern reveals about the Australian government’s relationship with Indigenous people.
A fourth project in the Indigenous Creators Pitch – Marliya, pitched by Shontell Ketchell, Stephen Page and Ewan Cutler, about a First Nations youth choir – received $20,000 in development funding as part of AIDC’s Shark Island Foundation Feature Docs Pitch.
The Indigenous Creators Program and Pitch are part of IBA's ongoing commitment to empowering First Nations voices.
IBA’s Producer Offset Loan, a financial solution designed to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander filmmakers, provides Indigenous-owned production companies with the necessary funds to finance eligible Australian documentary, film, or television projects. It complements investments from Screen Australia, state government film-funding agencies, or broadcasters.
AIDC 2025’s Indigenous Creators Program and Indigenous Creators Pitch are both supported by IBA, marking the organisation’s debut involvement in AIDC.
IBA Deputy CEO Sean Armistead said IBA was proud to support the initiative, saying it provides a vital platform for amplifying Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices in the documentary sector.
“This initiative is about creating real opportunities for First Nations documentary makers to bring their unique and powerful stories to market.
“The breadth and depth of talent among the selected projects is inspiring, and we’re proud to support these creators in their journey to connect with decision-makers and bring their stories to audiences worldwide.”
AIDC CEO/Creative Director Natasha Gadd noted that the Indigenous Creators Pitch had been long-planned but needed the right partner to bring it to fruition.
“This Indigenous Creators Pitch has been years in the making but it's only with the support of Indigenous Business Australia for this year’s indigenous Creators Program, that we have finally been able to create a dedicated pitch for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander storytellers.
“The Indigenous Creators Program is designed by and for First Nations practitioners and, now in its seventh year, we are thrilled to be able to include a marketplace pitch for filmmakers to pitch new projects to buyers seeking Indigenous-authored stories.
“The unique vision, styles and stories of all the projects have impressed AIDC and our decision makers beyond measure. We thank Indigenous Business Australia and congratulate all the teams. We hope to be able to do this again for years to come."
For more information about the Indigenous Creators Program and the winner of the Indigenous Creators Pitch, visit aidc.com.au. To find out more about IBA’s Producer Offset Loan Solution, visit iba.gov.au.
Media contact: Tara Toohill 02 9207 6362 or tara.toohill@iba.gov.au
