In an industry where Aboriginal women are rarely seen — let alone heard — Tradara Briscoe is leading change, on her terms and on Country.

As co-owner of DAC Civil, a successful Indigenous-led construction company operating across the Northern Territory, she's not just managing a business; she's shaping a movement grounded in cultural pride, economic independence, and generational empowerment.

This year's NAIDOC theme, "The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy", reflects her story with clarity and truth.

Her leadership exemplifies strength; the resilience to navigate industries that often overlook women like her. It reflects vision; an ability to reimagine leadership through culture and community. And it leaves behind a living legacy, not just for her children, but for communities across the NT.

DAC Civil was founded four decades ago in Alice Springs by Doug Taylor, her father-in-law. When he stepped away in 2018, Ms Briscoe and her partner Dion — then just 22 — stepped into the business with bold purpose.

"We had the confidence and belief that we'd be able to grow and build DAC into what it is now," she recalled.

"Dion and I have three children together, and we were adamant on continuing the generational wealth for them and for remote communities across the NT."

Today, DAC Civil is known for its large-scale infrastructure projects — including the Hidden Valley Culvert Upgrade and Small Mines Safety Works — but its reputation is built just as much on values: employing local mob, respecting Country, embedding culture, and creating real pathways for First Nations workers.

At the 2025 Civil Contractors Federation NT Gala Awards, the team earned five major accolades. Aaron Banderson picked up both Plant Operator of the Year and Site Supervisor of the Year. Dallas Campbell was named Support Champion of the Year, and Natasha, a key team member, was honoured for her ongoing leadership and support.

Behind the accolades is a leadership style that centres people, place, and pride.

"My cultural identity hasn't just influenced my leadership; it's the foundation of it," Ms Briscoe said.

"It taught me to lead with heart, to stand strong in my values, and to always bring others along with me."

Raised in a remote Aboriginal community, with English as her third language, she understands the challenges of being unseen and underestimated. Bias, racism, and exclusion were part of the journey; but none of it stopped her.

"As an Aboriginal woman in civil construction, I've often been underestimated, not just for my gender, but for my identity. I never let that limit me," she explained.

"What began as a struggle for visibility became an opportunity to redefine leadership, to create space for others like me."

DAC Civil now stands as a blueprint for self-determined economic development in the Northern Territory — where success is measured not just in contracts, but in how many people are working on Country, feeling proud, and growing into leaders themselves.

"Indigenous businesses aren't just participating in the economy; we're reshaping it," she said.

"When Aboriginal people are given the chance to work on Country, earn with dignity, and lead with culture, the ripple effect is powerful."

Central to that success is a workplace culture built on respect, safety, and inclusion.

"We don't expect people to separate their cultural identity from their work; we encourage them to bring their full selves," Ms Briscoe said.

"We lead with culture. We respect Country. And we make space for mob to feel not just accepted, but valued."

Ms Briscoe's approach to business is more than strategic; it's deeply personal. Leadership, to her, is an extension of cultural obligation and community care.

"Don't wait for permission. Back yourself. Start where you are," she advises other Aboriginal women stepping into business.

"Stay connected to your culture; let it guide you and keep you strong. The most powerful leaders I know are those who stay true to who they are and where they come from."

As NAIDOC Week shines a national light on the next generation of First Nations leaders, Briscoe stands as a living example of the theme.

She's not just building roads; she's clearing paths for others to follow.

And through that work, she's showing the rest of the country — and the construction industry — exactly what's possible when Blak women lead with culture, confidence, and a clear vision for the future.