The report identified key barriers that must be addressed to drive growth in the First Nations economy. These include:
Barriers to Access
- Geographic isolation (remote and regional)
- Economic marginalisation and socioeconomic disadvantage
- Limited self-determination over natural, produced, or other elements of capital
- Cultural divide, discrimination, and invisibility
Barriers to Growth
- Mainstream lending practices and risk models for investment
- Investors’ limited understanding of First Nations business models
- Business capability challenges
- Resource and capacity constraints
- Limited access to procurement markets
Barriers to Integration with the Mainstream Economy
- Differences in wealth creation, asset approaches, and risk appetites
- Discrimination within mainstream business networks and corporate systems
- Mainstream investment metrics often undervalue the collective capital approach of First Nations businesses
Partnering for Growth
Marrawah Law and Advisory is a leading Indigenous-owned law firm, trusted by governments, corporates, not-for-profits, and Traditional Owner groups across Australia. We deliver expert legal and strategic advisory services across a broad range of matters, grounded in deep cultural knowledge and community insight.
We’ve seen firsthand the powerful impact of embedding Indigenous businesses within government and corporate supply chains. These partnerships generate meaningful outcomes for Indigenous communities, while also delivering commercial value to clients and contributing to broader economic growth.
Indigenous businesses consistently deliver high-quality work and are actively seeking procurement and contracting opportunities. Through our strong networks within the Indigenous business sector, we can assist clients in building robust frameworks and forming enduring partnerships with trusted Indigenous suppliers, strengthening supplier diversity and supporting long-term, values-aligned relationships.