Cultural Market Systems Development

Summary

The Cultural Market Systems Development (CMSD) project, delivered by Indigenous Connection with support from the CRCNA, examines the systemic barriers limiting economic participation and wellbeing in remote and very remote First Nations communities across northern Australia.

The research explores the interconnected relationships between housing, employment, infrastructure, cultural knowledge and institutional trust, highlighting the need for more culturally informed, place-based approaches to economic development.
A key outcome is the development of the Cultural Market Systems Development Index (CMSD-I), a framework designed to better understand community conditions and identify opportunities for targeted investment and systemic change. The project also developed a future scenario modelling tool to explore how improvements in housing, economic inclusion and market participation could influence community wellbeing.

The report provides evidence and recommendations for governments, industry and First Nations organisations to strengthen cultural and economic inclusion, improve institutional relationships and create more sustainable economic opportunities on Country.

Stay connected

Visit the Indigenous Connection CMSD webpage to download the report and register your interest in the research. Indigenous Connection is seeking feedback from readers to understand how the findings are informing decisions, practices and opportunities for change within organisations and communities.

The Cultural Market Systems Development (CMSD) project, led by Indigenous Connection, explored how market systems can better recognise First Nations cultural knowledge, strengthen economic participation and support improved cultural, social and economic wellbeing across remote and very remote communities in northern Australia. The research examined the interconnected influence of housing, essential infrastructure, institutional relationships and market systems on economic participation. It identified opportunities for governments and industry to work more effectively with First Nations communities, including through the recognition and procurement of cultural knowledge services. Key outcomes include the development of the Cultural Market Systems Development Index (CMSD-I) and a future scenario modelling tool, providing new evidence to inform place-based policy, investment and market systems design. The findings highlight the potential to unlock significant opportunities for cultural economic inclusion, strengthen reconciliation and contribute to Closing the Gap. By recognising and valuing First Nations knowledge of Country, culture and community, this approach could create pathways for up to 1,000 First Nations people to participate in the economy through culturally aligned employment and business opportunities. Stay connected Visit the Indigenous Connection CMSD webpage to download the report and register your interest in the research. Indigenous Connection is seeking feedback from readers to understand how the findings are informing decisions, practices and opportunities for change within organisations and communities. Follow Indigenous Connection at: Website https://www.indigenousconnection.com/s/ Instagram @indigenousconnection Facebook @indigenousconnection LinkedIn Indigenous Connection