Some stories remind us of what is possible when leadership comes from the heart. Moonyah Workforce is one of those stories.

Founded by brothers Saia and Anthony Fainga'a, proud of their Tongan and Aboriginal heritage, Moonyah Workforce has become one of Queensland's leading labour hire and traffic management companies.

The former Wallabies took the values they learned through sport such as teamwork, trust and discipline and built something that reflects who they are and what they stand for.

Their journey from the rugby field to the business world was never about ego or recognition. It was about creating a legacy. A legacy built on loyalty, family and opportunity.

"Our bond has always been built on unconditional trust and loyalty. We have had each other's backs through every challenge," Saia.

"That same foundation is what Moonyah stands on, a safe house where people feel supported, valued and part of a family."

Anthony says that same spirit runs through everything they do.

"Moonyah Workforce is about creating real opportunities for people to thrive. After rugby I wanted to take what I had learned about teamwork and resilience and use it to empower others. We are here to give people more than jobs. We build careers, pride and a sense of belonging for anyone looking for a fair go," he said.

That word, Moonyah, comes from the Bundjalung language and means safe house. It is not just a name. It is a philosophy and a reminder that everyone who walks through their doors belongs.

The business now employs more than 1000 skilled and unskilled workers across Australia, offering complete workforce solutions including labour hire, payroll, compliance, traffic management and safety. But what makes Moonyah special is not just what they deliver, it is how they do it.

At its heart, Moonyah is about inclusion. More than a quarter of its workforce identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, and women now make up over 30 per cent of on-site employees. The company actively supports women in non-traditional roles, partners with training organisations and recruits locally in consultation with Elders and Traditional Owners.

Anthony believes collaboration is the key to lasting change.

"Collaboration has been part of Moonyah since day one. By working with clients, community leaders and other Indigenous businesses, we have built lasting employment pathways. For us, collaboration means listening, respecting and making sure our people are set up to succeed."

Saia reflects on the lessons that continue to guide them.

"Success in sport and business both come down to teamwork, trust and culture. Everyone plays their role, supports each other and works toward the same goal. You win when you move as one team."

Their shared cultural values keep the business grounded and strong.

"Our culture guides everything we do," Saia said.

"Staying true to who we are keeps Moonyah grounded. You can achieve success and still honour your roots. That is what makes us different.

Anthony shares that inclusion and diversity are what give Moonyah its edge.

"A diverse team brings fresh ideas, stronger problem-solving and better outcomes for clients. For First Nations people and women, representation matters and it shows that barriers can be broken and opportunities are real. At Moonyah, inclusion creates impact."

When you speak with Saia and Anthony, their humility stands out. They are proud but grounded, driven by legacy not accolades.

"Seeing our people step into new roles and thrive excites me the most," Saia said.

We are not just creating jobs, we are creating pathways, confidence and a legacy that will last for generations."

Anthony echoes that vision for the future.

"I want Moonyah to show that Indigenous businesses can succeed at scale while staying true to culture," he said.

"Our legacy will be pathways, where young people see leadership and ownership as real options. If we inspire the next generation to aim high while lifting others up, we have done our job."

This Indigenous Business Month, it is an honour to celebrate Saia and Anthony Fainga'a and the Moonyah Workforce team, showing us all that strength truly comes through collaboration, culture and connection.