Hearings begin for First Nations economic independence inquiry

THE Joint Standing Committee on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs (JSCATSIA) will hold its opening public hearing today for the inquiry into improving the economic self-determination and opportunities for First Nations Australians.

Indigenous businesses are estimated to contribute more than $16 billion to the Australian economy, employ 116,795 people, and pay $4.2 billion in wages^.[1].

The committee is interested in hearing from Indigenous Business Australia and a range of government agencies such as IP Australia, the Treasury and the National Indigenous Australians Agency about the support and opportunities they offer to First Nations Australians for training, employment and business development, as well as matters relating to Intellectual Property, and building the economic and social infrastructure to support economic prosperity in the long term.

CommitteeChair, Mutthi Mutthi and Wamba Wamba woman Senator Jana Stewart, said, "Blak-owned businesses are creating long-term economic prosperity in their communities. It is critical that we examine the opportunities and barriers to ensuring First Nations knowledge can be protected, and Blak businesses can thrive."

Further information on the inquiry, including the program for the public hearing at Parliament House on Friday June 28, is available on the committee’s website.

Public hearing details

Date: Friday, 28 June 2024
Time: 9am – 4pm (AEST)
Venue: Committee Room 1R5, Parliament House         

The hearing will be broadcast live and will be accessible from the Parliament House website.

 

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