Research shows that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander owned businesses not only deliver innovative products and services but also employ Indigenous people, reconnect their employees to culture, instil pride and aspiration in Indigenous communities, invest back into communities and help heal the trauma of the stolen generations.

Procuring products and services from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses is a great way for your school or early learning service to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses, employment and supplier diversity. Engaging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander owned businesses can also strengthen relationships your school or early learning service has with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, businesses and organisations. 

Supplier diversity aims to increase opportunities for businesses owned by people from minority or marginalised groups to supply their goods and services to public and private sector organisations.

A good place to start supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander owned businesses is to find out which businesses exist in your area. Develop a list of local, regional, state based and national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander owned businesses, or even formally incorporate these businesses into internal procurement policies and procedures. 

Supply Nation is the leading directory of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander owned businesses – visit their website to source Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander owned businesses in your area.