$2.3 million boost for Aboriginal businesses

Written on the 18 May 2016

Investment to boost corporate governance and business leadership skills of Aboriginal businesses

The State Government today announced $2.3 million for an Aboriginal Governance and Leadership Development Program for regional Western Australia, funded by Royalties for Regions.

Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said Aboriginal businesses would have the opportunity to enhance their operations and business performance under the program's three streams: a corporate governance development program, a business leaders program and access to procurement advisory services.

Mr Redman said the corporate governance development program would provide eligible Aboriginal organisations and boards with grants of up to $60,000 for professional assistance, training opportunities and independent directorships.

"Good corporate governance strengthens financial management and strategic decision-making.  These grants will support opportunities for ongoing training, workshops and forums to up-skill managers and aspiring managers," he said.

The Minister said the program would strengthen economic participation of Aboriginal people through business leadership skills training, coaching and mentoring opportunities.

"Strong business leadership is critical in responding to economic pressures and guiding the future development of agile, resilient and empowered regional communities," he said.

"The procurement advisory services will increase Aboriginal businesses' capacity to secure goods, services and works contracts, and contribute to regional communities' economic prosperity and sustainability.

"I encourage anyone interested in the Aboriginal Governance and Leadership Development Program to visit the Department of Regional Development website for more information."

Fact File

• Corporate governance development program grant applications close on Thursday June 9, 2016
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• Business leaders program and procurement advisory services tender applications close on Thursday June 2, 2016
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• For more information on the grant eligibility criteria, visit http://www.drd.wa.gov.au 

For information on the procurement advisory services tender or business leaders program tender, visit http://www.tenders.wa.gov.au or email agldp@drd.wa.gov.au

Minister's office - 6552 6700