Minister for Indigenous Australians
I want to acknowledge all the distinguished guests here tonight, but I also want to acknowledge the Gadigal people of the Eora nation, their elders past and present.
When Joseph began to recognise Indigenous businesses in his awards, he came and saw me and he asked me if I would present the first set of awards. And he wanted to do it because he saw the entrepreneurship in Indigenous Australians who started their own businesses. He recognised the commitment that they had given to endeavour to establish a pathway that would give them the capacity and opportunity to be successful, not only in their business, but to contribute to the economy and employment of Indigenous Australians.
Our Government has embarked on a very ambitious program, a Roadmap for skills development, wealth creation, and the opportunity to build a base because we know Aboriginal businesses employ our own people, as well as non-Indigenous Australians who have the skills to make up the foundation for a successful business.
Tonight you saw four incredible businesses. That's only the tip of the iceberg. I have the privilege of seeing so many businesses that are flourishing. And what staggers me is the number of Indigenous women who have developed their own opportunities and received the support that takes them forward. And that is now passing on through to their children.
We have a great future in this nation. Diversity is one of the best things we have. It's not only amongst multicultural people. In Aboriginal society there are 250 different language groups across this geographic nation of ours and that diversity is seeing people flourish. Tonight was a classic example of four companies, four businesses, that are emerging as powerhouses and will play a critical role.
Joseph I want to thank you. For your belief in our people, for the contribution you've made in ensuring that they're recognised in your awards.
