First Nations Contribution to the Economy

The contribution of First Nations businesses to the Australian economy and community extends far beyond the sum of its economic activities. These contributions include significant social return such as opportunities for First Nations employment and self-determination, more prosperous First Nations communities and the creation of intergenerational wealth as well as the continued maintenance and preservation of First Nations knowledge and cultural identity. 

A research study ('The Indigenous Business and Corporation Snapshot Study 3.0') conducted in 2022 by The University of Melbourne's Dilin Duwa Centre for Indigenous Business Leadership and the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) found that there were 13,693 active or trading First Nations businesses and corporations in 2022. This amounted to $16.1 billion in revenue, the employment of 116,795 people and $4.2 billion in wages. For size comparison, the revenue generated from First Nations businesses was equivalent to the Australian timber industry in 2022.

It is important to note as well that this study only covers businesses and corporations who voluntarily register themselves as Indigenous on Australian Census and/or Centrelink records to promote their business. There are many owners who may not register for a multitude of reasons including not being aware of the registry, not see the benefits of registering or risking discrimination if they do. 

First Nations businesses are diverse in their offerings and business models and therefore, the contributions to the broader community and the economy are far reaching. There are cultural businesses that offer tourism and art which contributes to the preservation of cultural practices such as song, dance, ceremony and language, which is vital in keeping language alive. There are also knowledge brokering businesses that provide educational resources which is essential in the maintenance and preservation of the world's oldest continuous living culture. Additionally, First Nations businesses are more likely than their non-First Nations counterparts to hire First Nations staff and the working environments that they offer are often more supportive, contributing to greater financial autonomy, independence and wellbeing for First Nations people. 

Additionally, a large percentage of the businesses in the First Nations ecosystem are in rural and remote communities; 56% of sole traders and 78% of partnership. Connection to Country is incredibly important to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, so the significance of First Nations people using their businesses to offer employment and job opportunities to other First Nations people within communities and on Country should not be overlooked as it helps build economic independence, which is essential for self-determination. 

At Welcome to Country, we have a number of First Nations brands in regional and remote areas including Indigiearth, Warndu, Nagula Jarndu and Tjanpi. 

Indigiearth: 

Indigiearth is dedicated to celebrating and sharing First Nations cultures through food and products. Based on Wiradjuri Country in Central Western New South Wales, Indigiearth source native ingredients and collaborate with First Nations communities to create a range of high-quality offerings from spices to bush foods all while promoting sustainability and respect for traditional knowledge. 

Warndu: 

Warndu highlights the beauty and diversity of First Nations food culture and sources native ingredients to create unique, sustainable products that celebrate Australia's rich heritage. By blending traditional knowledge with modern culinary practices. Warndu empowers local communities and promotes biodiversity. Their range includes pantry staples, snacks, and cooking resources, inviting everyone to explore and embrace the flavours of First Nations cuisine while supporting environmental sustainability and cultural preservation. 

Nagula Jarndu: 

Nagula Jarndu is a social enterprise that celebrates and shares First Nations culture through handcrafted art and products. Founded by a group of talented Yawuru women, the company focuses on traditional techniques and materials, creating beautiful art pieces that reflect their rich heritage and connection to Country. 

Tjanpi: 

Tjanpi Desert Weavers is a social enterprise that empowers First Nations women in remote Central and Western deserts through the art of weaving. By using raffia and traditional techniques, Tjanpi creates stunning contemporary artworks that reflect cultural stories and connection to the land. 

Indigenous Business Month is an important time for us to highlight and celebrate the successes of First Nations businesses however, supporting and shopping with purpose all year round is what allows these businesses to continue operating and contributing to the broader community and Australian economy.