This month’s edition is full of powerful stories, exciting updates, and opportunities to connect.
We proudly celebrated Indigenous Business Month under the theme Strength in Collaboration – a timely reminder of the value in sharing, connecting, and growing together with First Nations businesses and communities.
One of the standout events was the Koori Knockout in Tamworth, one of the largest gatherings of First Nations people in the Southern Hemisphere. With over 30,000 attendees, it was a vibrant celebration of culture, sport, and community, where IBA was proud to show up, listen deeply, and walk alongside mob.
We also spotlighted Paul Thomsen, a seasoned photographer whose WildFoto journey captures the soul of the Top End. His work is a stunning tribute to Country, wildlife, and the people who call it home.
Another inspiring story came from Pete and Kylie, whose heartfelt letter shared their journey to home ownership and the life-changing support they received from IBA and their loan officer Michelle.
We’re also excited to share the impact of Ray Pratt and his company DICE, which is creating jobs and training pathways in construction and renewables on Larrakia Country – powered by IBA’s performance guarantees.
Our Indigenous staff network, Galambany, gathered on Kaurna Country to connect, collaborate, and strengthen the next generation of First Nations leaders. The name, meaning “we including you” in Ngunnawal language, reflects the spirit of unity and care that defines the network.
In a major step forward, IBA is collaborating with the Commonwealth Bank of Australia to drive financial equality for First Nations people. Together, we’re combining strengths to deliver greater value to our communities.
We also signed a landmark agreement with Larrakia Development Corporation and Aboriginal Investment NT to chart a path toward economic sovereignty in the Northern Territory – ensuring future development aligns with community priorities.
The IBA Annual Report 2024–25 is now out and highlights a year of strong impact. Marking 50 years of service, we expanded our reach across housing, business, and investment platforms, while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability and positive social outcomes.
Finally, if you know of someone looking to build their skills or explore new opportunities, let them know about our upcoming workshops.
And if you haven’t already, subscribe to get it delivered straight to your inbox.
Media Release on behalf of CBA and IBA.
New Memorandum of Understanding to unlock better financial outcomes for First Nations people through home and business lending, and participation in renewables and carbon projects.
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) and Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) have today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), a strategic collaboration to support financial outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, businesses, and communities.
Under the MOU, CBA and IBA will work together, aiming to strengthen organisational capabilities, co-develop innovative financial solutions and expand access to finance for First Nations customers.
Focus areas of the MoU include:
CBA and IBA will also explore capability-building initiatives such as secondments, mentoring arrangements and tailored training programs.
IBA Chief Executive Officer, David Knights said:
“This collaboration with CBA reflects our shared commitment to creating financial pathways that empower First Nations individuals and communities. By working together, we can open more doors to culturally appropriate finance, building a stronger Indigenous-led economy for generations to come.”
“This strategic collaboration with the nation’s biggest home lender supports IBA’s Strategy to 2030, which is about creating more economic opportunities for Indigenous Australians. It’s about walking together to create a more inclusive and prosperous future for all, one that champions entrepreneurship, supports home ownership, and invests in the future of our communities.”
CBA Group Executive, Business Banking, Mike Vacy-Lyle said:
“CBA has a longstanding commitment to reconciliation and to being a trusted financial institution to First Nations peoples.”
“This MOU with Indigenous Business Australia reflects our shared ambition to drive economic empowerment. Together we aim to unlock more opportunities and meaningful outcomes for Indigenous Australians.”
Mr Vacy-Lyle said the announcement aligns well with this year’s Indigenous Business Month theme – 'Strength through Collaboration' – currently being celebrated throughout October.
“Our work with Indigenous Business Australia builds on CBA’s Reconciliation Action Plan with a clear focus on creating meaningful, sustainable change - whether through financial inclusion, career pathways, or supplier diversity.
“We also recognise the importance of culturally responsive banking experiences and continue to invest in dedicated bankers who understand and respect the diverse needs of First Nations customers.
“We know there is more to do and we remain committed to deepening relationships and expanding opportunities across our network.”
IBA has a 50-year history of supporting the financial empowerment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. IBA’s programs and services enable First Nations people to own a home, run a successful business, and invest in their futures.
In FY25, CBA spent more than $62 million with Indigenous-owned businesses.
In July, CBA released its Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) for 2026-2028. It focuses on strengthening relationships with First Nations communities, providing meaningful career opportunities, supporting First Nations business growth, and improving access to banking products and services. The RAP has received Elevate status from Reconciliation Australia.
Real stories of impact
Promo Gear accelerates growth
David Hulett, a proud Jagera man from Meanjin, is the Director Promo Gear – a thriving business based in Morningside, Queensland. Despite 15 years industry experience, obtaining finance to purchase Promo Gear in 2014 was a challenge.
“We had so many doors closed on us, it was an emotional rollercoaster. Our business was built on a lot of goodwill and intellectual property which can be difficult to for the traditional finance industry to quantify,” Mr Hulett recalled.
“After some time, an Aunty suggested that I contact IBA so I reached out,” he said.
In 2015, Mr Hulett secured finance with IBA. Promo Gear flourished over subsequent years, experiencing rapid growth by focusing on culture, character and relationships with both suppliers and end customers.
“We trade like it has been done for thousands of years – with a focus on the long-term relationship rather than the transaction. We get a lot of referral work and people keep us on as their supplier when they move to a new business,” he said.
By 2019, the business built up its data and financials and were able to secure lending with CBA to support their next phase of growth.
“Today, we have amazing clients, excellent warehouse facilities and are growing our team and service offerings through new innovations. As a business that has been supported by both IBA and CBA it’s great to see them coming together like this, each organisation has different strengths and I’m excited to see what they can achieve together,” he said.
Butterworth Industries builds a brighter future
Butterworth Industries, a Katherine-based civil construction company owned by Quandamooka woman, Madelyn Farrington, and Ryan Butterworth received support from IBA through a loan for an essential watercart, and by linking them with a business consultant, who provided professional operational advice.
“This support has been really important to us, following our business plan to reduce costs and improve operations and further support our staff to grow. I hope to further grow and shape our business venture in avenues that are exciting and bring further learning and capabilities to our workforce,” said Ms Farrington.
“I hope to support locals within our community to join us in strengthening what our business can provide for future generations. We are the small people in the big game.”
For more information about CBA’s Reconciliation Action Plan, visit: https://www.commbank.com.au/content/dam/commbank-assets/support/docs/CommBank-RAP-FY26-28.pdf
Notes to editors
The Indigenous business sector is rapidly growing in Australia, with around 14,000 businesses in 2022 generating $16 billion in revenue. Deloitte Access Economics forecasts this could reach $50 billion by 2035, outpacing the non-Indigenous sector.
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.
About the Commonwealth Bank
The Commonwealth Bank (ASX:CBA) is one of Australia’s leading providers of personal banking, business and institutional banking and share broking services. With more than 16 million customers and a history spanning more than a century, the Group’s purpose is to build a brighter future for all. The Commonwealth Bank is Australia’s leader in digital banking and maintains the largest branch network across the country. Headquartered in Sydney, Australia, the Bank operates brands including Bankwest in Australia and ASB in New Zealand. For more information on Commonwealth Bank, visit www.commbank.com.au.
Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) has released its Annual Report for 2024–25 which shows Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across Australia are driving economic success, and building financial independence and long-term, economic prosperity.
The report showed that IBA achieved every KPI, and outlines key activities and achievements, including:
IBA reported total consolidated assets of $2.4 billion, an increase of $107 million from the previous financial year. This growth was primarily driven by the expansion of the loan portfolio, with increased lending activity.
2024–25 marked the 50th anniversary of the Indigenous home ownership program. Since inception, IBA and its predecessors have supported over 22,000 families—benefiting more than 75,000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. This year alone, more than $290 million in home loans were approved.
First Nations businesses are thriving with support from IBA’s business solutions program. In 2024–25, $77 million in business finance was delivered to 172 businesses, helping create or sustain 791 jobs. 185 businesses accessed external support, and more than 860 participants joined 80+ workshops nationwide.
First Nations organisations are building long-term prosperity through IBA’s investment platforms, with $84.3M in IREIT distributions, strong IPF returns of 11.5% and 7.1%, and seven new co-investors joining.
IBA Chair Darren Godwell said: “IBA is evolving into an Indigenous economic powerhouse—fulfilling its legislative mandate and unlocking new possibilities for future generations.
“We are proud to stand with First Nations people across Australia in shaping a future defined by strength, resilience, and prosperity."
The Annual Report also highlights IBA’s commitment to sustainability and impact, with the release of its fourth Impact Report focused on financial wellbeing, its first ESG strategy, and the comprehensive Pathways Through Housing and Business reports.
View the full IBA Annual Report 2024–25 here.
Media contact: Katie Hoskins 02 9207 6362 or katie.hoskins@iba.gov.au
Indigenous Business Australia (IBA), Aboriginal Investment NT, and the Larrakia Development Corporation (LDC) have signed a landmark partnership to pursue investment opportunities on Larrakia Country.
IBA is taking a new approach to advance Aboriginal economic self-determination - by aligning with the two organisations to secure long-term economic outcomes for Aboriginal Territorians by actively seeking out investments in key infrastructure.
The partnership was finalised on 14 October 2025 during the week of the 12th Aboriginal Economic Development Forum in Darwin, signed into effect by IBA Chairman Mr Darren Godwell, LDC Chairman Mr Mark Motlop, and Aboriginal Investment NT Chair Ms Barbara Shaw.
Aboriginal Investment NT is the leading body responsible for the economic development of Aboriginal people across the Northern Territory.
Quotes
IBA Chair, Darren Godwell said: “This partnership is a new approach for IBA in our Legislative purpose and advancing the economic interests of Traditional Owners – on their own lands.”
“The Partners have begun seeking out investment opportunities, to secure economic outcomes for the Larrakia peoples.”
LDC Chair Mr Mark Motlop welcomed the partnership, stating: “For many decades Larrakia Elders and leaders fought to secure their interests and rights through the Kenbi Land Claim. This is the next step in securing Larrakia economic rights and economic futures.”
Aboriginal Investment NT Chair, Barbara Shaw, said: “This partnership demonstrates the strength of collaboration between Aboriginal organisations with shared values and ambitions. We’re excited to combine our experience, networks, and capital to create investment pathways that deliver real and lasting economic empowerment for Aboriginal Territorians.”
Media contact: Katie Hoskins 02 9207 6362 or katie.hoskins@iba.gov.au
Did you catch our Chair this week on SBS? Darren Godwell was invited to be part of the program, which asked: Where has the Closing the Gap framework delivered results?
The Chair was asked for his response to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s announcement at Garma Festival of his government's commitment to First Nations people's economic empowerment.
Darren Godwell said: “For 17 years we've invested hundreds of millions of dollars, if not billions of dollars into these targets and this framework around social policy. And we need to be honest with people, and we need to be honest with Australians. A lot of those results have not been delivered, and we have not seen improvements on those key targets.”
He stressed the need for Indigenous control and leadership: “Until we're ready to confront that reality and deal in Indigenous leadership and Indigenous control, then I don't think we will see improvement in those statistics.”
Importantly, he acknowledged a major milestone for IBA: “The Prime Minister, the Treasurer and the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs have for the first time moved to give Indigenous Business Australia the legislative powers to leverage greater private sector investment.”
Watch the full interview on SBS On Demand.
This year marked our second proud participation in the Koori Knockout a powerful, humbling, and deeply enriching experience. Alongside the belly laughs, hearty meals, and meaningful connections, we walked away with renewed purpose and insight.
More than a sporting event, the Koori Knockout is a cultural cornerstone. With an estimated 40,000 attendees, it stands as the largest annual gathering of First Nations peoples in Australia. It’s a celebration of community, identity, and resilience where stories are shared, pride is amplified, and connections run deep.
Our Purpose at the Knockout
For IBA, being present at the Knockout wasn’t just about setting up a stall or distributing flyers. It was about listening deeply, learning respectfully, and exploring new ways to walk alongside community. Our presence was guided by a commitment to genuine engagement to show up, stay curious, and build trust.
Why Community Events Matter
IBA exists to support the self-determined economic empowerment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We know that real impact begins with being on Country, in community, and in spaces where mob feel safe, proud, and strong.
Events like the Knockout give us the opportunity to:
Reflections and Learnings
As a returning sponsor, we took time to reflect on what we learned and how we can continue to grow:
These insights are helping shape how we engage not just at events, but across all our services and programs.
To everyone who stopped by our stall, shared a yarn, or participated in our voxpops thank you. Your stories, laughter, and wisdom continue to guide us.
We’re committed to walking together, listening deeply, and showing up not just at the Knockout, but wherever community leads.
Reproduced from Chair, Darren Godwell's LinkedIn article.
It’s Indigenous Business Month 2025 #IBM2025. Australia’s economy is seeing record Indigenous business growth. The charge is being led by Indigenous women as business creators and owners as they pursue new business opportunities at a rate faster than anyone else.
We’re also witness to an ever-growing appetite for Indigenous participation in major projects on-country from traditional owners and First Nations.
Growth sectors that overlay with Indigenous interests include large-scale renewables, carbon markets, mining (especially gold and critical minerals), infrastructure, indigenous botanicals, agriculture, and aquaculture, and contracting of government services.
This positive shift in Indigenous economic outlook prompted expansion of the role and remit of Indigenous Business Australia (IBA).
In February, the Parliament issued IBA new legislative powers to raise capital from the capital markets, investment community and the private sector.
I am proud to say, following on from this, that the Board has completed a strategic review, set new strategic priorities, appointed a new CEO, and set about partnering with Indigenous Peoples in ways that advance their economic self-sufficiency.
As more Indigenous peoples move into business, and more of our leaders focus on economic development, it is timely to share our strategy in Indigenous Business Month.
The IBA Towards 2030 Strategy directly serves our purpose: to assist and enhance Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander self-management and economic self-sufficiency, and to build a substantial Indigenous capital base for the benefit of future generations.
We do so whilst honouring the 5,618 Indigenous clients and customers of IBA.
I extend our deepest gratitude, for it is by their hard work in repaying mortgages and business loans that 89% of IBA’s annual operating budget is funded.
Indigenous mortgage holders and business-owners are effectively self-funding our own principal economic development agency.
The refreshed plan means IBA will work directly with First Nations and Traditional Owners, to understand your economic priorities and plans for self-sufficiency. And to help you achieve those goals.
IBA will expand our engagement alongside Indigenous entrepreneurs, business owners, and First Nations entities with lead responsibilities for driving economic outcomes.
We recognise the rising role of Indigenous chambers of commerce and the growing influence of Indigenous interests in both domestic and international trade and investment.
At the heart of IBA 2030 Strategy are four strategic objectives that chart our way to 2030.
IBA will scale its ambition, mobilising between $5 to $7 billion over the next five years to advance the commercial and economic interests of Indigenous peoples.
This unprecedented commitment demands new thinking and new relationships.
To achieve this, IBA will build material working partnerships with the banking and investment sectors, appointing Capability Partners.
These partners will bring institutional expertise, experienced personnel, and networks to the table—helping IBA strengthen its own capacity, while opening-up greater access to resources for Indigenous peoples and businesses. In the same vein, IBA will expand our working relationships with the Commonwealth’s Departments of Treasury and Finance, and the Special Investment Vehicles. Collaboration across the Commonwealth public sector is important.
By doing so, we will create more certainty for investors, build trust in Indigenous-led projects, and establish a genuine pathway for mainstream capital to flow into more Indigenous economic priorities.
This is not just about accessing more money—it is about tapping into the right kind of capital.
From institutional investors to Indigenous-led funds, from superannuation fund managers to international partnerships, IBA is broadening the base of support to ensure Indigenous peoples are central players in the economy.
Capital must flow where it creates the most impact, and generates investment returns—on Country, in alignment with First Nation’s economic goals, and into Indigenous enterprises that matter most to First Nations and Indigenous entrepreneurs.
By working directly with Indigenous entrepreneurs, Traditional Owners, and Indigenous chambers of commerce, we will ensure that greater resources are deployed to projects that generate both commercial returns and Indigenous outcomes.
This includes enabling First Nations entities to take the lead in shaping economic development on their Country—whether in housing, infrastructure, renewables, or major resource projects.
IBA’s role is to ensure that Indigenous-led economic priorities are not left on the margins of the investment economy but placed firmly at the centre.
IBA will bring more capital to more of these plans and opportunities for business and economic outcomes.
This may require IBA to expand existing business solutions or, equally as likely, to develop new business products that meet the needs of Indigenous business clients.
Transformational change requires patient, long-term capital.
IBA will expand its support for home ownership, Indigenous businesses, and entrepreneurial ventures—giving them access to more of the runway to viability.
Patient capital is about more than patient money, it is about patience with process, recognising the cultural, social, and community dividends that Indigenous-led businesses deliver alongside financial outcomes.
By backing these entrepreneurs and business owners to launch, grow, and scale, IBA is building intergenerational prosperity that strengthens both families and Nations.
Taking a longer-term view of the economic goals of Indigenous Australians is a critical advantage that IBA possesses. Our First Nations charted and managed Indigenous economies on this continent in sustainable ways for tens of thousands of years.
This strategic objective will necessitate IBA working closely with independent First Nations on their plans for economic growth and economic inclusion. Building the asset base of First Nations is central to objectives for Indigenous economic sustainability.
In becoming a value-added specialist capital provider, IBA is committed to knowledge creation, market intelligence and market insights. By publishing research, policy contributions, and sector intelligence, we aim to shape a clearer understanding of the Indigenous economy and its drivers.
I believe that having regular, reliable business data and intelligence aids more efficient investment decision-making. Good quality economic data is integral to building investment and business cases. To this end, IBA will be establishing a specialist unit to collate and publish regular economic data on the size, shape, and trends of the Indigenous-led economy. This will include the appointment of IBA's first ever Chief Economist to lead this work and to build it partnerships with other entities that have significant information on the Indigenous economy.
This includes raising the visibility of Indigenous interests in international trade and investment, and ensuring global investors understand the scale of the opportunity that Indigenous-led projects represent.
By lifting confidence, transparency, and knowledge, IBA will help drive more efficient investment decisions that benefit Indigenous peoples directly.
IBA’s refreshed Strategic Plan is ambitious because ambition is what the moment demands. The Indigenous economy is growing, but it must grow on Indigenous terms—guided by the vision of First Nations peoples and Traditional Owners, supported by entrepreneurs, businesses, chambers of commerce, and strengthened by capable partners in the banking and investment community.
This strategy is not about small steps; it is about building momentum.
It recognises that prosperity is not achieved in isolation, but through material partnerships, strong relationships, and shared determination.
From families accessing their first home, to entrepreneurs scaling their businesses, to Nations driving large-scale investments on-Country, and to Indigenous enterprises stepping onto the global stage—this strategy is about ensuring that every opportunity is unlocked for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to build wealth, resilience, and self-sufficiency.
The journey ahead is bold, but the reward is even greater: a future where Indigenous prosperity is not an aspiration but a lived reality across Australia.
Please find one occasion in October to celebrate and support Indigenous businesses, Blak entrepreneurs, and Indigenous economic development in Indigenous Business Month.
Taunurung woman, Nicole, is a successful business and homeowner, with a lot to be proud of. But she takes the greatest pride in the values and financial independence that she inspires through generations of her family.
Nicole was determined from a young age to get on the property ladder early, to build her financial future. She achieved this at just nineteen years old, through a loan with ATSIC (which later became IBA) and bought the ex-housing commission home that she’d grown up in.
“It was small, but over the years I made improvements to it,” Nicole said. “Funny thing is – I always understood the value of owning a home. I didn’t want to pay rent and waste money that could go into my own home.”
In time, Nicole transitioned to a mainstream lender and moved to another home. Fast-forward almost forty years and one of Nicole’s three daughters, Georgia, has recently been approved for her first IBA home loan.
“I told Georgia about IBA and the value in saving to get her own place,” Nicole said. “I wanted her to have her own place too, not to waste money on rent.”
“It’s hard work and a lot of paperwork, but worth it. She’ll have her own home.”
“If Georgia had to go down a regular path, it’d be years before she had enough saved for a 20% deposit on a house. So, I kept saying to her, ‘make the enquiry at IBA’.”
Georgia and her partner, Mackenzie, have just found a home of their own with a backyard to share with their adored animals – she is the owner of three cats and wants to add to the brood with chickens and a dog.
“Sticking our sold sign onto the sale board was an amazing feeling!” Georgia said.
“I grew up with mum always having a home, and she inspired me to want the same.”
“I did rent for a while and it’s hard to save and have security when renting. I could see that the money I was paying in rent could be going into a place of my own.”
“So, I moved back to Mum’s for twelve months to squirrel my money into savings.”
While Georgia was looking for her home, Nicole was with her every step of the way and helping her go through building reports, paperwork and giving her advice on her home purchase.
“Mum has made me very aware of what I’m getting into!” Georgia laughed.
Nicole also owns and runs a successful business, Gerrbik Laundry Services. She bought it from her dad (then known as Complete Workwear Laundry Services) with an IBA business loan in 2015. We met her back then to yarn about her business journey: Poised for success - Indigenous Business Australia.
While Nicole’s business is flying now, she has faced huge challenges. Her core business is servicing the airline industry, and she says COVID-19 restrictions wiped out 95% of her business overnight. Nicole says that at times she thought she might lose her business, and her house (which had been used as collateral for the business). But managed to keep going and weather the storm.
"My connection with IBA has been a lifeline to me!" said Nicole. "They believed in me which has given me a lot more belief in myself."
Her hard work and tenacity paid off and the business revenue has since tripled from pre-Covid including a 7-year contract with an airline for their laundry service. Nicole credits the business success to her amazing team which includes three generations of family working with her, something that she is very proud of.
Georgia has also inherited her mum’s strong work ethic. She is a professional baker and part of a boutique artisan bakery, working early hours and long days. She’s not afraid of hard work.
Nicole’s impact through the generations doesn’t stop there. She’s also encouraging one of her other daughters to start preparing to apply for an IBA loan and saving for a deposit.
“It’s about sustaining yourselves through life.” Nicole said. “We need to be self-sustainable. I want to pass that on to my kids and grandkids.”
“My nine-year-old grandson already wants a house too,” she continued. “He even saved his birthday money. That’s exciting - knowing it’s passed down. That will be a legacy for our family.”
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Meet Pete and Kylie who went from aspiring homeowners to proud first homeowners. Their journey is a powerful testament to what’s possible when determination meets the right support.
Like many aspiring homeowners, Pete and Kylie began their journey with hope and uncertainty. But with the guidance of IBA Home Loan Officer Michelle, they found not only expert advice but a source of empowerment, strength, and heartfelt support.
In a deeply moving letter, Pete and Kylie shared their gratitude:
"To dearest Michelle,
It's difficult to begin to describe just how much we appreciate you and everything you did for us during this process...! But I'll try anyway!
We heard of IBA through a friend, and when we finally decided to make an inquiry, how very lucky we were to have our case handled by you, Michelle!
I lost count of the minutes and hours you spent guiding us through the process. It wasn't the time and hours which meant so much though. What really meant so much to us was the kindness, warmth, humour, and genuine empathy you so generously shared with us through the entire process. It felt like we had a guardian angel sent to us to help us change the course of our entire lives for the better. And you really have!!
This week we became proud homeowners, and without the help of IBA, the beautiful Michelle, and the lovely Ros, there’s not a chance we could ever have got into the market and stayed in the area where we so happily live.
We now have a platform to live the life of our dreams, and I want to convey just how meaningful it is to people like me, an Indigenous man with no access to generational wealth, to have this opportunity which I never thought could be possible.
From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you Michelle and IBA for being a significant positive turning point in the course of the lives of two incredibly grateful people.
You’ll eternally be a shining star in our skies!!!
Lots of love and gratitude,
Pete and Kylie."
Their story is more than a celebration of buying a home it’s a reflection of the strength of First Nations families building futures rooted in pride, place, and possibility. It’s about rewriting what’s possible for the next generation.
Their journey highlights the importance of culturally safe support systems and the transformative impact of community-driven services.
Congratulations, Pete and Kylie! Your story inspires us all and reminds us that with the right support, anything is possible.
Indigenous Business Month 2025: IBA Event Calendar
October marks Indigenous Business Month, a time to celebrate the achievements, innovation, and leadership of First Nations businesses across Australia. Throughout the month, IBA is proud to support, sponsor, and participate in a range of events that empower Indigenous enterprise and foster community connections. Here’s where you’ll find us this October:
Date: 3 - 6 October
Location: Riverside Sporting Complex, Carter Street, Tamworth, NSW 2340
About: Australia’s largest Indigenous rugby league carnival, celebrating culture and community. Hosted by Walgett Aboriginal Corporation, the event features teams across divisions, live entertainment, food stalls, and a vibrant marketplace.
IBA Involvement: Hosting a stall and event promotion.
Victorian Aboriginal Business Awards (VABA) 2025
Date: 10 October
Location: Marvel Stadium, 740 Bourke St, Docklands, VIC 3008
About: A prestigious gala dinner honouring excellence in First Nations enterprise, with awards for innovation, leadership, and collaboration.
IBA Involvement: Award sponsorship and presentation.
Aboriginal Economic Development Forum (AEDF) 2025
Date: 13 - 15 October
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton, 116 The Esplanade, Darwin, NT 0800
About: Empowering Aboriginal enterprise and leadership through keynotes, workshops, and a dynamic marketplace.
IBA Involvement: Silver sponsor, hosting a stall, and event promotion.
First Nations Business Showcase 2025
Date: 14 October
Location: Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Corner Port Rd & Adam St, Hindmarsh, SA 5007
About: Showcasing over 100 First Nations businesses, with cultural education, wellness sessions, and opportunities for procurement and partnerships.
IBA Involvement: Low-level sponsorship, hosting a stall, and event promotion.
National Housing Conference Dinner
Date: 15 October
Location: Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, 21 Mounts Bay Rd, Perth, WA 6000
About: Australasia’s largest cross-sectoral housing event, bringing together policymakers, researchers, and industry.
IBA Involvement: Sponsored dinner attendance.
Deadly in Gippsland 2025 – Morwell
Date: 17 October
Location: Sale Memorial Hall, 82-84 Macalister St, Sale, VIC 3850
About: Celebrating First Nations business and culture with an expo, market, live entertainment, and workshops.
IBA Involvement: Low-level sponsorship to support event operations.
Date: 27 - 28 October
Location: Rydges Resort Hunter Valley, 430 Wine Country Dr, Lovedale, NSW 2325
About: Bringing together Indigenous businesses, government, and industry to showcase excellence in procurement, sustainability, and innovation.
IBA Involvement: Bronze sponsor, hosting a tradeshow stall.
World Indigenous Business Forum 2025
Date: 28 - 30 October
Location: Hyatt Place, 1 English St, Essendon Fields, VIC 3041
About: Uniting global Indigenous leaders and entrepreneurs for economic development, networking, and cultural exchange.
IBA Involvement: Tier One sponsor, exhibition stall, and panel facilitation.
National Economic Development Awards 2025
Date: 28 - 30 October
Location: Newcastle City Hall, 290 King St, Newcastle, NSW 2300
About: Featuring community stalls, live entertainment, and industry-led discussions.
IBA Involvement: Sponsorship, award presentation, and event promotion.
Indigenous Business Forum 2025
Date: 30 October
Location: Notre Dame University, 88 Guy St, Broome, WA 6725
About: Gathering Aboriginal entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and government for keynotes, performances, and a business showcase.
IBA Involvement: Bronze sponsor, event promotion.
Illawarra Indigenous Business Expo 2025
Date: 31 October
Location: Novotel Wollongong Northbeach, 14 Cliff Rd, North Wollongong, NSW 2500
About: Featuring local Aboriginal businesses, market stalls, food, art, and cultural performances.
IBA Involvement: Major partner, event promotion, and potential speaking opportunity.
Join us this Indigenous Business Month as we celebrate, connect, and empower First Nations businesses and communities across the country.
