As the holiday season approaches, we're on the lookout for gift ideas that not only bring joy but also support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses. From handmade jewellery and unique fashion pieces to delicious chocolate and unforgettable experiences, we've curated a list of our top 10 gift ideas that give back. By supporting these incredible businesses, you're helping to preserve traditions, promote cultural pride and uplift First Nations entrepreneurs. Let's make this season meaningful in every way. In no particular order, here are our top picks.
Amber Days
Yaraay bucket hat
Price range: $50
Bubs need protection from the sun, and with activities moving outdoors, it's time to get sun smart. A perfect gift for the little ones in your life is this hand-sewn baby bucket hat, created in collaboration with Holla Clothes and Gamilaraay artist La Terre Press. Available in sizes small (12-24 months, 48cm), medium (3-5 years, 51cm), and large (6-8 years, 53.5cm). Proud Yorta Yorta and Boonwurrung woman Corina Muir launched Amber Days six years ago, combining creativity with culture and promoting sustainable fashion. As a single mother to her daughter Sapphire, Corina's brand employs Aboriginal women, single mothers, and women from minority and disadvantaged backgrounds who often face barriers to meaningful employment. We're swooning over the latest design of the Yaraay bucket hat, available for purchase from the 22nd of November.
Ethical and Organic Clothing for Children & Adults | Amber Days
KYKOE
Coconut Palm Binbi Scrunchie
Price range: $15 - $30
In recent years, scrunchies have come back in vogue, becoming an essential accessory for anyone looking to secure their locks. This Christmas, KYKOE has it covered with a selection of Walabai (skinny) and Binbi (standard) scrunchies, each featuring exclusive artwork that reflects the brand's mission to allow the wearer to carry culture wherever they go. Launched by Butchulla, Barada Barna and Saisarem (Erub/Darnley Island) woman Tishara Garrett in 2019, who expresses her artistic vision through her cultural heritage. The scrunchies make a perfect stocking filler, a thoughtful Secret Santa gift, or a treat for yourself to help you through the hotter months. For those who prefer headbands, be sure to check out the incredible range; we recommend Coconut Palm as a top choice this summer.
Baagi Milaygiin
After Sun Spray & Dreamtime Oil Roller pack
Price range: $60
It wouldn't be the festive season without a little after-sun and after-fun care, and Baagi Milaygiin has just what you need to recover from all the holiday cheer. Whether it's their lemon Myrtle Moisturiser or Bush Rub Balm, it's hard to pick a favourite, but this summer we're all about the After Sun Spray & Dreamtime Oil Roller pack. Perfect for anyone in need of a little TLC—whether that's soothing sunburnt skin or shaking off the festivities. Packed with lush, natural ingredients, this combo will leave your skin feeling revived and refreshed. And let's not forget the Dreamtime Oil Roller, made from virgin macadamia oil, lemon myrtle, anise myrtle, blue mallee, Australian white cypress and peppermint gum. It's your go-to for those restless nights or a queasy stomach. Gomeroi and Dharug woman and founder of Baagi Milaygii, Deb Munson, says to roll it on your temples, the back of your neck and under your nose for instant relief. It's like a little festive season survival kit in a bottle.
Hangover Revival – baagimilaygiin.com.au
tarnijanedesigns
Mob Deep 3-in-1 Water Bottle
Price range: $60
Emotional support water bottles are never far away, and thanks to Tarni Jane's diverse and unique designs, you won't want them to be. Crafted from premium stainless steel, the Mob Deep 3-in-1 Water Bottle comes in 27 different colours and includes three lids to suit all your needs. More than just a vessel for water, it represents unity, connection, and the strength that comes from being part of the Mob Deep family. The artist explains each element in the design symbolises the unique individuals who make up the First Nations community. Perfect for anyone, we can't get enough of the Sapphire Blue.
Mob Deep 3 in 1 Water Bottle – tarnijanedesigns
Haus of Dizzy (main picture)
Crystal Flame Heart Earrings - Large
Price range: $69
Wiradjuri woman Kristy Dickinson began making jewellery at a young age as a form of art therapy to help her navigate a traumatic period. While wearing her pieces, she often attracted the attention of people wanting to know where they could purchase her accessories. Motivated by this interest, she started selling at Bondi Beach markets while working full-time. After securing her first account with the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney, her hobby transformed into a thriving business and we're oh so glad it did. Using mirrored acrylic, glitter, and dynamic patterns, her vibrant statement jewellery delivers powerful messages that embody unwavering courage in demanding justice, truth, and Blak sovereignty. With so much to choose from, it's easy to be captivated by her creations. For us, we can't get enough of the crystal flame heart this festive season.
Haus of Dizzy Crystal Flame Heart Earrings ðŸ"¥
BROSISCUS
Colours Crystal Band Ring
Price range: $60
Established with family at its heart in 2021, BROSISCUS' collection of rings, necklaces and earrings is the perfect gift. The brand seeks to celebrate and showcase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture through exquisite gold, silver and diamond jewellery. Committed to collaboration, it partners with other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses, models and artists, fostering a sense of community and cultural pride. With more than 100 sparkling crystals masterfully embedded in a wide band of gold, the Colours Crystal Band Ring is one of our favourite pieces in this collection.
Colours Crystal Band Ring | Aboriginal Flag Jewellery Collection
Chocolate On Purpose
Aussie Bushfood Christmas Chocolate Hamper Bag
Price range: $35
The signature line of chocolate known as 'Bush Food Chocolate' is made by blending rich, melt-in-the-mouth couverture chocolate with Australian native botanicals sourced from Country. This unique range not only offers a delicious taste experience but also aims to educate consumers about the superfood benefits of native botanicals and highlight the traditional wisdom of First Nations People regarding their use. Let's face it, there's always room for dessert, and we suggest the Aussie Bushfood Christmas Chocolate Hamper Bag as a perfect gift to enjoy—and hopefully share.
Aussie Bushfood Christmas Chocolate Hamper Bag – Chocolate On Purpose
Saltwater Eco Tours
Bushtucker Cruise
Price range: $65 - $85
Fancy a cruise through Mooloolaba's canals aboard a heritage-listed vessel, or maybe you're more into exploring the sweeping river beyond the main channel on a cultural canoe adventure. Either way, Saltwater Eco Tours, launched by Simon Thornalley, a descendant of the Kaurareg people from Horn Island (Ngurupai) in the Torres Strait, and his partner, showcase the rich culture and history of the Kabi Kabi people on their land. Whether you choose to sail on the restored, heritage-listed Spray of the Coral Coast, a 115-year-old, 58ft Huon-pine ketch, or paddle in individually painted canoes, you'll be combining coast with culture. We're suckers for bush tucker, so we're opting for the 5-star Bushtucker Cruise, which offers a gourmet native-infused menu and unforgettable live music experiences. Not only is this the perfect gift, but it's also a fun and immersive activity for the whole family this holiday season.
Bushtucker Cruise, Native Foods, Cultural Experience
Miimi & Jinda
Jibaanga silk scarf
Price range: $89 - $400
As the weather heats up, we're all about sustainable, slow fashion pieces to keep us cool through scorching days and balmy nights. A little silk and linen can go a long way, which is why we're eyeing the Miimi & Jiinda collection. Fresh off the runway at Australian Fashion Week 2024, their Yuulgaar Regular-fit Men's Button-Up Linen Shirt paired with the matching Relaxed-fit Linen Pants is a stylish go-to. Make sure to allow time for pre-orders! For something ready to wear, the Jaanymili Silk Slip Dress is perfect for effortless summer vibes and why not wrap up one of the line's new 100% silk scarves, we're opting for the Jibaanga.