The Goldfields Aboriginal Business Chamber wants the WA government to work more closely with regional chambers to empower First Nations businesses and drive long-term economic change.
General manager of the Kalgoorlie-based chamber, Melissa Tombs, said governments should engage with Aboriginal business chambers that work directly with these businesses to foster economic growth and development.
"The WA government and national government should be looking to partner with regional Aboriginal business chambers to invest in First Nations' long-term business sustainability," she told the Indigenous Business Review.
"This partnership will help close the economic gap, create sustainable employment, and ensure that Indigenous communities benefit from the resources and opportunities in their regions.
"Funding for business sustainability, currently there are other organisations funded via NIAA (National Indigenous Australians Agency) to help start-up Indigenous businesses and even microfinance startups which is fantastic to encourage our first nations entrepreneurs but there is a lack of initiative and funding for sustainability."
The Goldfields Aboriginal Business Chamber (GABC), which is just under 700 kilometres east of Perth, offers a range of services to support Aboriginal businesses in the region, including networking opportunities, business development advice, and mentorship.
The GABC provides advocacy and representation for Aboriginal entrepreneurs, helps with accessing funding and grants, and offers professional development workshops and events to enhance business skills.
One of the chamber's main goals is to empower First Nation business owners and foster economic growth within the Goldfields community.
"GABC also advocates for First Nations businesses, ensuring their voices are heard in policy and decision-making processes," Ms Tombs said.
"Additionally, they provide training, professional development, and access to funding opportunities to help businesses thrive and create sustainable economic impacts in the Goldfields region. By connecting businesses with resources and opportunities, GABC plays a vital role in strengthening the Aboriginal business community."
While the First Nations economy in the Goldfields region has experienced significant positive transformation, Ms Tombs said several Indigenous businesses still face barriers that can hinder their growth and success.
She openly admits some of these barriers are multifaceted and require tailored solutions to address them, but some of the biggest challenges include access to capital and funding, navigating complex bureaucracy and procurement processes, limited capacity and skills development, and geographical isolation.
Despite these hurdles, Ms Tombs said there had been a marked increase in the number of Aboriginal-owned businesses across various sectors, including mining, construction, tourism, arts, and hospitality.
"This growth is largely due to greater access to business support services, funding opportunities, and resources provided by organisations like the Goldfields Aboriginal Business Chamber," she said.
"First Nations economy in the Goldfields has become more diverse, resilient, and interconnected, marking a positive trajectory toward long-term economic empowerment and self-determination.
The chamber is also set to host the inaugural Yuwa Aboriginal Business Conference & Expo in June.
Prominent media personality and First Nations advocate, Stan Grant will MC some of the events, including a keynote speech from renowned chef and Meriam woman Nornie Bero.
"GABC is bringing together stakeholders, business community, marketing opportunities and business developments to achieve business community collaboration, investment opportunities and cross-promotion of Aboriginal businesses," Ms Tombs said.
"The conference will serve as an opportunity to showcase Aboriginal businesses' strengths and also drive new business opportunities."
