Business on Country: Land use diversification on the Indigenous estate

Reference # AT.4.1718111
Project Status Completed
Timeframe 2 years (2018 to 2020)
Project manager Ian Biggs

CRCNA Funding $363,636
Total project value $1,000,180
Project research participant North Australian Indigenous Land and Sea Management Alliance Limited (NAILSMA) ; Darwin Centre for Bushfire Research, Charles Darwin University ; Northern Land Council ; The Nature Conservancy Australia Trust

Research Programs 4. Building industry and capacity in Northern Australia
Location Darwin, Cairns, Broome

First Nations led business development
Agriculture
Strategic policy development

Summary

This project successfully developed a northern Australian network and engagement framework to support Indigenous landowners and managers in advancing development and establishing a fee-for-services sector across the Indigenous estate.

The Business on Country (BoC) approach facilitated the infusion of cultural values, rights and interests into the creation and operation of Indigenous businesses.

The project produced a suite of research outputs and publications, which are listed below in the publications section.

Expected outcomes

Developed and trialled the Business on Country (BoC) framework at three pilot sites, empowering Indigenous leaders to guide sustainable development on their land.
Wider adoption of (BoC), supported by government, industry, and NGOs, is expected to enhance Indigenous economic participation, reduce risk of failure, and create significant employment opportunities.
High interest from other communities, indicating strong future job prospects.