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
Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) is delighted to welcome the historic passing of the legislative amendment to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (Act) to enhance IBA’s ability to leverage capital, supporting more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in achieving their dreams of home ownership, business enterprise and community investment.
This amendment aligns with the Government’s indications that IBA should have an expanded remit and role in delivering economic independence for First Nations people in Australia.
Previously, Section 184 of the Act restricted IBA from borrowing or raising capital. The amendment removes this barrier, providing IBA with the flexibility to explore new opportunities, and expand the range of financial products it can offer to meet market needs.
A Kokoberren man from north Queensland and the IBA Chair, Darren Godwell, highlights the importance of this change in furthering IBA’s mission.
“We continually seek new pathways to grow our impact. This is particularly meaningful this year as we celebrate 50 years through the generations. Our home ownership program commenced in 1975 and to date we’ve supported more than 22,000 families into home ownership – an achievement that empowers prosperity, wellbeing and intergenerational impact.
“Expansion for further investment and business opportunities, as well as our largest, long-standing program of home ownership, means more success for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
“As demand for our services continues to grow, this amendment will help us to achieve our vision for Australia’s First Nations people to achieve economic independence – a right we fully deserve.”
As the Treasurer of Australia, the Hon Dr Jim Chalmers PM, noted in November 2024, the amendment “is part of the Albanese Government’s push for greater economic empowerment for First Nations people – and delivers on a key commitment made by the Prime Minister at the Garma Festival (2024)."
The IBA Chair acknowledges the incredible support from multiple groups to get to where we are today, including the Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator the Hon Malarndirri McCarthy, the Expert Panel (which included Mr Rick Allert AO, Ms Rosemary Addis, Dr Doug McTaggart, Ms Diane Smith-Gander AO, Professor Robynne Quiggin, Dr Helen Szoke AO, and Professor Marcia Langton AM), and our staff at IBA.
“The work that led to this legislative change has been underway for several years now with valuable input from our Expert Panel members, the Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Prime Minister, and the Indigenous community who recognise the impact this will have,” said Mr Godwell.
“This is not the end goal but only the beginning. We look forward to the next steps in this process so we can provide increased access to capital, robust pathways to prosperity, and success through collaboration and partnerships.”
The Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator the Hon Malarndirri McCarthy, was integral in progressing this result. Minister McCarthy notes the reason this will benefit Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
“Modernising the ATSI Act will supercharge IBA’s capability to inject capital into activities that promote greater economic empowerment and self-determination for First Nations Australians,” said Minister McCarthy.
“The measure will provide IBA with the opportunity to partner with a range of Government entities and private investors, amplifying the positive economic, social and cultural impact it will have on the lives of First Nations people.
“The ability to participate in more investment opportunities and raise funds to advance the commercial and economic interests of First Nations people will enable IBA to deliver on Government priorities and support its agenda for Closing the gap.”
Media contact: Tara Toohill 02 9207 6362 or tara.toohill@iba.gov.au
PLEASE NOTE: Although the legislation successfully passed, the important next step involves establishing the Rules under the new legislation. The Rules will set the parameters within which IBA can borrow and raise money. The rules need to be agreed by both the Minister for Indigenous Australians and the Finance Minister.
Larrakia Development Corporation Pty Ltd (Larrakia) acquires shares in the Adina Vibe Hotel from Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) demonstrating its continued investment into the Northern Territory tourism industry.
Last week Larrakia completed its purchase from IBA of shares in the hotel and apartment enterprise located in the Darwin Waterfront Precinct. The purchase reduces IBA’s effective ownership to 40% while making Larrakia a 5% owner.
Larrakia’s investment goes beyond fiscal; it allows for a growing Larrakia presence at the Darwin Waterfront, that will create culturally informed spaces and further opportunities for employment and training of the Larrakia people.
Nigel Browne, CEO, Larrakia Development Corporation, noted that now is the right time for the corporation to reinvest in the assets.
“The Larrakia Development Corporation has spent the last twenty-two years investing in economic prosperity for ALL Larrakia. The repurchase of shares of the Adina Vibe allows us to do just that and be able to provide genuine engagement into one of the NT’s economic growth industries,” said Nigel.
"With the Larrakia Cultural Centre slated to open in 2026 and the purchase of these shares, Larrakia Development Corporation is placing our faith in the growing economic and employment opportunities in the NT’s Aboriginal Tourism sector.”
“The Adina is suitably located at the Darwin Waterfront to seize on the growing popularity of the precinct and does not interfere with the nearby registered Larrakia Sacred Site.”
IBA supports and enhances the economic development opportunities of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across Australia. Divestment opportunities that benefit Indigenous communities are part of the strategy to create wealth and positive impacts for the future.
“The investment by Larrakia Development Corporation means that the Traditional Owners benefit from the future growth of the property. It also further encourages First Nations employment and cultural recognition which lead to a more inclusive community – all key priorities for IBA,” said Shanti Rama, Acting CEO, IBA.
Media contacts:
Tara Toohill 02 9207 6362 / tara.toohill@iba.gov.au
Kate Finch 0413 633 750 / special.projects@larrakia.com.au
About IBA
IBA is a commercially focused organisation. Economic independence for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is at the heart of what we do. Our programs assist Indigenous Australians to buy their own homes, be successful in business, and invest in commercial ventures that provide strong financial returns. IBA is 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. www.iba.gov.au
About Larrakia Development Corporation
Officially incorporated under ASIC in February 2002, the Larrakia Development Corporation is a company owned and operated by the Larrakia people, the traditional owners of the lands and waters in and surrounding Darwin. The company is continually seeking opportunities to establish positive commercial relationships with organisations that are operating on Larrakia Country and beyond. Larrakia Development Corporation aims to work with likeminded operators to build economic wealth and better health for our local community. www.larrakia.com.au
Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) farewells the significant contributions of our outgoing board directors, including the chairperson, as they finish their terms this week. Their leadership and commitment to IBA led to the achievements of the business and to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
The outgoing board directors include Eddie Fry (chairperson), Shirley McPherson, Rick Allert, and Rick Callaghan. Their contributions have been pivotal in shaping the direction of the organisation and empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in achieving economic independence.
Eddie Fry served as chairperson of the IBA Board since 2014. A Dagoman man from the Katherine region in the Northern Territory, Eddie’s leadership has been transformative—not just for IBA, but for Indigenous businesses and communities across Australia. Under his guidance, IBA expanded its reach and impact, helping businesses thrive and communities grow.
IBA’s latest annual report noted success in the financial year with distributions of over $365 million in capital or capability development to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, support for 2,681 people with an IBA product or the opportunity to access the economy through a job or procurement, and 3,829 people provided with access to networks, knowledge, and capability-building services.
Over ten years since 2014, IBA has grown its total investment portfolio value from $198 million to $576 million, approved $1.951 billion home loans and $456 million in business finance.
Mr Fry highlighted his time as chairperson by saying, “The IBA Board and the IBA family kept striving for excellence in everything we do.”
Shirley McPherson, a Yamatji-Noongar woman, made significant contributions to Indigenous financial and economic development in her 10-year term at IBA. Shirley always came to the table with a dedication and strategic insight to IBA’s growth and impact.
Ms McPherson leaves behind her hopes by saying, “My wish is for our First Nations people to understand that they have an enormous land mass ownership in Australia therefore must develop it to ensure great returns but always maintain in ‘control’ of their country. My second wish for our customers is to always pursue your dreams, never think that you’ll never achieve them, you will.”
Rick Allert AO, has been vital in strengthening IBA’s financial sustainability and its capacity to deliver meaningful outcomes for Indigenous Australians in his 10-year term. His governance expertise and commitment to transparency have played a key role in IBA’s strategic development.
Mr Allert noted about his time at IBA: “The highlight for me has been our home loan lending which has had such a positive impact on Indigenous people...which gives them security and pride, but also a platform for wealth creation.”
Rick Callaghan, a proud Potaruwutj man whose Aboriginal family originate from the Padthaway region South Australia, served as a board director since 2021. Rick has made significant contributions to Indigenous policy and business integration across the country, as well as at IBA.
Mr Callaghan’s highlight of his time at IBA: “Knowing that our strong team has delivered on our charter and increased the gross assets by 71% over the past ten years, and legislation to improve the IBA’s commerciality and sustainability is ready as we leave.”
Acting IBA CEO Leo Bator notes, “The dedication, expertise, and leadership of our outgoing directors have left a lasting legacy at IBA, and we are grateful for all they have done to further the cause of Indigenous economic empowerment. We wish you all the best in your future endeavours and know that your influence will continue to be felt in the years to come.”
More information on the IBA Board can be found at Our board - Indigenous Business Australia or see the PM&C Media Release: New Indigenous Business Australia Board Members appointed - Indigenous Business Australia on the announcement of the new appointments.
Media contact: Tara Toohill 02 9207 6362 or tara.toohill@iba.gov.au
Reproduced from Minister for Indigenous Australians media centre, released 11 Dec 2024.
Three eminent First Nations people have been appointed to the Board of Indigenous Business Australia (IBA).
Mr Darren Godwell has been appointed as Chair and Ms Leah Cameron and Ms Olga Havnen as Directors.
Indigenous Business Australia plays a critical role in advancing the economic independence of First Nations people through expert business advice, tailored finance solutions and investment initiatives that empower individuals and businesses.
The new appointees bring extensive expertise from different First Nations communities across the country and from sectors including business, finance, law, trade and investments.
The Albanese Government acknowledges and thanks outgoing Chair Mr Eddie Fry and Directors Ms Shirley McPherson and Mr Richard Allert AO, for their leadership and dedication to IBA over the past decade, and Mr Richard Callaghan for his contributions during his 3-year tenure.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy:
“The new Board members bring to IBA a wide range of skills and lived experience that reflects the diversity of First Nations Australia - from finance to community health, from small communities to big cities.
“That diversity will contribute to IBA’s ongoing efforts to support First Nations people to realise their aspirations and build sustainable economic futures.
“I congratulate Mr Darren Godwell, Ms Leah Cameron and Ms Olga Havnen on their appointments.”
