Highlighting local First Nation businesses leading the way

More than 100 people gathered to celebrate First Nations women in business at the Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE) Local First Nations Women in Business Breakfast.

It was an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of First Nations women in business and the vital role they play in strengthening our community and Queensland’s economy.

TSBE’s Indigenous Business Connector, Ashley Williams said the breakfast gave us a chance to showcase the strength, innovation, and leadership of our local small business community

“Our local First Nations women are creating opportunity, forging new paths and making a lasting impact,” Mr Williams said.

“We heard from businesses that are going above and beyond. They are developing programs, partnerships, and pathways that support and uplift First Nations people and women across industries.

“These efforts are creating more inclusive environments, where diversity is not just welcomed, but celebrated as a strength.”

Guests heard from several First Nations women shaping their path in business, including:

• Kate Russell, Chief Executive Officer at Supply Nation
• Courtney Hodder from Brisbane Lions 
• Kristian Rose, Regional Director at Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning
• Crystal Wagner from Wagner Civil
• Lisa-May Rossington, Founder of Red Sand Sisters
• Barb Walker from Barb's Weaving 
• Janet Suey, Owner of Deadly Jibbitz.

Guest speaker and Chief Executive Officer at Supply Nation, Kate Russell, touched on the incredible growth and contributions Indigenous businesses make to the economy and their communities.

“Over the last 15 years the total spend from Supply Nation members was over $20 billion. Last year alone it was $4.6 billion. That’s $4.6 billion going directly into Indigenous families and communities because of the deadly products and services they provide,” Ms Russell said.

“Supply Nation’s aim is to stimulate growth and better social outcomes for Indigenous peoples through economic empowerment.  

“The event gave us wonderful opportunity to network and celebrate the many female-owned businesses in the Toowoomba region.”

Thank you to Windlab, the sponsor of First Nations Women in Business event.

Fast Facts:

• Queensland is proudly home to over 495,000 small and family businesses, making up 19% of the Australian small business sector.
• Among them, 4,855 owners identifying as Aboriginal people and or Torres Strait Islander people. 
• In 2023/24 financial year, the Queensland Government procured over $535.9 million in goods and services from Indigenous businesses, $93.9 million more than the previous year.

The Indigenous Business Connector program is delivered by Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise. The social investment program is supported by Shell’s QGC business and joint venture partners Tokyo Gas and CNOOC as part of our commitment to supporting stronger First Nations.