The Hon. Don Punch, Minister for Regional Development (WA), Media Release, 9 August 2023

The Cook Government’s successful Aboriginal Business Leadership Initiative has been extended to the Gascoyne, to help build the capacity of Aboriginal businesses in the region.

Better Heart Aboriginal Corporation has been awarded the contract to deliver the six-month program in the Gascoyne.

The Aboriginal Business Leadership Initiative aims to increase Aboriginal leadership capacity and grow sustainable businesses in regional Western Australia, in a way that reflects the vision and desires of regional communities.

The Gascoyne program will develop Aboriginal business leaders’ skills, knowledge and networks, and empower business leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators to harness growth opportunities.

Better Heart Aboriginal Corporation is engaging with local stakeholders to market the program and structure training to align with individual business aspirations and regional economic opportunities. The first round of candidates will begin a training program this month.

Delivering this leadership training, mentoring and support program in the Gascoyne will be significant to the region and the Inggarda, Baiyungu, Thalanji, Malgana and Thudgarri people.

Since 2017, the initiative has been delivered in the Mid West, Goldfields, Wheatbelt, Great Southern and South West regions and has collectively supported 60 Aboriginal start-up businesses.

Comments attributed to Regional Development Minister Don Punch:

“This is the first Aboriginal Business Leadership Initiative program to be delivered by an Aboriginal business, and the person leading delivery is a graduate of the Wheatbelt program.

“With the reopening of the Gwoonwardu Mia Aboriginal Culture Centre, there is greater optimism about economic and social opportunities, particularly Aboriginal economic tourism development initiatives.

“We are keen to support the development of emerging and existing local Aboriginal businesses in the Gascoyne.”