A $US100,000 grant from MetLife Foundation to the First Nations Foundation's new Resilient and Ready program extended the insurer's support to enhance financial literacy among Indigenous women across the country.
FNF's new initiative is part of its Rich Blak Women program and designed to support some of the specific needs of Indigenous women as they develop and broaden their skills on various career journeys.
The new funding would give 500 First Nations women access to the Resilient and Ready program, a diverse education series on essential financial foundations, delivered through online workshops, financial wellbeing modules and networking events.
Skills such as budgeting, savings and debt management are learned, with participants also privy to advice and guidance on setting personal and career goals, negotiating pay rises and accessing higher-paid roles.
Financial self-care sessions and education on strategies to safeguard against scams and financial pitfalls, are part of the FNF program, as well as guidance on fostering healthy money relationships with family and partners.
FNF chief executive Phil Usher was thrilled at MetLife's additional commitment to the financial wellbeing of Indigenous women.
"We're keen to team up with those who share our passion and drive to financially empower First Nations communities," he said.
A recent University of Melbourne report found Indigenous-owned businesses in Australia generated $16.1billion in revenue during 2021-2022.
Another study last year by Supply Nation and the Griffith Asia Institute revealed a key advantage of growth in Indigenous business sectors was those First Nations organisations were more likely to hire Indigenous people than non-Indigenous employers.
Mr Usher noted it was a pivotal time in the Indigenous economy, and training more First Nations women in a culturally-safe environment would drive growth for individuals and businesses collectively.
"Indigenous women are not only leaders in our communities but also often the ones in charge of the household budget," he said.
"By empowering [them], we are ensuring we have a positive impact throughout the community."
A significant part of the program taught women about overcoming limiting beliefs, and establishing healthy financial boundaries.
"Everything we do at the foundation follows a culture-first approach, which is the essence of why our programs are successful," Mr Usher said.
MetLife Australia chief executive Richard Nunn said the insurer reaffirmed its commitment because it knew how vital long-term financial health helped people build better futures.
"We look forward to working with FNF through this grant, and continuing our journey of cultural learning to deliver better experiences for our First Nations customers," Mr Nunn said.