First Nations business builds success in South East Queensland

Successful First Nations business owners are harnessing Queensland Government contracts to boost local training and job opportunities in South East Queensland.

Minister for Fire and Emergency Services and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Craig Crawford said the Palaszczuk Government is delivering Queensland’s plan to Unite and Recover for Queensland Jobs.

“Economies around the world are hurting in the face of the global coronavirus pandemic,” Mr Crawford said.

“That’s why Queensland has a plan for economic recovery.

“One of the key aspects is supporting more jobs for Queenslanders and supporting local businesses.”

Caboolture-based Indigenous business, Aspect Cabinetmakers recently secured more than $1 million in Queensland Government contracts through Selected Indigenous Projects including the new Caboolture police headquarters, Caboolture Special School project and Beenleigh State High School learning centre.

Mr Crawford recently visited Aspect Cabinetmakers Managing Director and Mandandanji man, Steve Hatchman, who started his apprenticeship at 16 and opened his business in 2009. 

Today his family-operated business employs a local workforce, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and apprentices, to design, manufacture and install residential and commercial projects all over Australia.

“It’s not just Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who benefit from successful Indigenous and non-Indigenous business partnerships — everyone stands to benefit if they are willing to participate,” Mr Hatchman said.

“Working together with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander business owners positively impacts not only Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and families, but also the wider community,” he said.

ENDS

Media contact:  Hope Fabillar 0428 343 432