Engaging with Aboriginal businesses and communities
Procuring from Aboriginal businesses promotes reconciliation and strengthens relationships between Indigenous and non-indigenous communities. Similarly, investing in an Aboriginal workforce by providing training and development and creating culturally safe workplaces fosters empowerment and financial well-being. These actions all contribute to building more resilient Indigenous communities.
Aboriginal businesses
Aboriginal businesses vary in size and maturity and operate across all states, territories, and industries. In Victoria, Aboriginal businesses are defined as those that:
- are at least 51% Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander owned,
- engage in commercial activities,
- operate in Victoria
- are certified by Kinaway Chamber of Commerce or Supply Nation.
As of 2023, Kinaway had a membership of over 600 Aboriginal businesses, 18% of which operate in the construction industry.
To count towards social procurement outcomes, Aboriginal businesses must be registered with either Kinaway or Supply Nation.
Identifying an Aboriginal business in Victoria
In the video below, Nerdu Badji Education provide a short overview of how to identify Aboriginal businesses in Victoria, benefits of working with them, and the resulting positive impacts on Indigenous employees, families, and communities.
