First Nations Business Showcase

The Hon. T.T. NGO (15:14): My question is to the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs. Can the minister tell the council about the First Nations Business Showcase event?

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Deputy Premier, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector, Special Minister of State) (15:14): I thank the member for his very concise question, and am pleased to update the council on The Circle First Nations Business Showcase. This showcase, now in its fourth year, is the largest event of its kind for First Nations businesses in South Australia.

The showcase, organised by The Circle, offers a platform to highlight the many opportunities for collaboration not only amongst First Nations businesses but also between government, non-government, industry and First Nations entrepreneurs and businesses. Over the last few years, the event has provided an opportunity to strengthen networks, build visibility, and help First Nations entrepreneurs grow and thrive. This was my fourth year attending the event, and it was particularly poignant to do so during National Indigenous Business Month, a national initiative held every October to promote the role of First Nations businesses in driving economic empowerment.

This year's Indigenous Business Month theme is 'Strength through Collaboration'. The theme resonated throughout the showcase, with in excess of 100 First Nations businesses participating across the state. I was incredibly proud of the business owners and the achievements they have made and continue to make. It was inspiring to see a wide range of Aboriginal businesses across a very wide range of sectors, including health, tourism, native produce, creative industries, financial services and many more.

I extend my congratulations to all the entrepreneurs who took part, and to the event organisers for their commitment to a vision where economic empowerment is central to progress. It is reported that not only is it important for First Nations owned and controlled businesses to succeed, but a First Nation owned and controlled business is approximately 100 times more likely to employ First Nations people within its business, thus creating further opportunity.