- Cook Government provides $250,000 towards Aboriginal business leadership in the Ballardong region
- 72 participants have completed the program since it was established in 2017
- Cook Government committed to providing quality jobs and business opportunities for Western Australians
A Cook Government initiative to build the capacity and growth of Aboriginal businesses has been delivered in the Ballardong region, which spans about 63,000 square kilometres in the Wheatbelt.
This week, 23 Aboriginal participants graduated from the Aboriginal Business Leadership Initiative program, aimed at advancing both personal leadership and business development.
The Cook Government provided $250,000 towards the six-month program to upskill Aboriginal leaders and grow sustainable businesses.
The Ballardong program, delivered by Better Heart Aboriginal Corporation, is aimed at building confidence in participants and equipping them with practical skills and knowledge needed for business success.
The participants involved were across a range of small business enterprises including bush medicine, transport services, clothing, artwork, and online administration support.
Since 2017 there have been 72 participants completing the program from across regional Western Australia.
As stated by Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson:
"The delivery of the Aboriginal Business Leadership Initiative in the Ballardong region builds capacity and harnesses business growth opportunities for the region's Aboriginal community.
"The Cook Government's commitment to building Aboriginal business leadership in regional WA is empowering local entrepreneurs, strengthening communities, and shaping a brighter future for generations to come."
As stated by Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch:
"This program supports the development of emerging and existing local Aboriginal businesses and provides valuable personal leadership and business development mentorship for participants.
"The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Wheatbelt Development Commission, and Ballardong Aboriginal Corporation have worked collaboratively to design this program, ensuring it is tailored to empower business leaders in the region and set them up for lasting success, fostering confidence, capability and a strong foundation for future growth."
As stated by Wheatbelt Minister Sabine Winton:
"The Ballardong program is empowering Aboriginal entrepreneurs in the Wheatbelt region to take their business ideas further. By providing targeted support, we're seeing real growth and innovation in our communities.
"This initiative delivers practical skills and mentoring that make a real difference for business owners across the Wheatbelt."
