October is Indigenous Business Month and you know what that means? It’s the perfect time to celebrate Indigenous entrepreneurship in Australia. From local tourism and fashion to unique art and food, there’s so much First Nations history and culture to explore.
With every purchase, you are contributing to the preservation and celebration of First Nations culture, as well as promoting economic empowerment and self-determination within First Nations communities across Australia.
In celebration of the partnership between Wotif and Welcome to Country, here are 10 local Indigenous businesses to get you started…
1. Gali Swimwear
Need a new pair of swimmers just in time for summer? Gali Swimwear fuses Australia’s First Nations culture with sustainable men’s swimwear. Founded by Kamilaroi man David Leslie, Gali collaborates with artists and communities to create premium swimwear that is designed to be celebrated around the world.
Learn more about Gali Swimwear
Ready to make a splash? Put your new swimmers to good use by visiting Bermagui Beach Hotel, Altitude on Montville or Kingfisher Bay Resort.
2. Giingan Gumbaynggirr Cultural Experience
Experience Gumbaynggirr culture, people and language in an immersive day at the iconic Sealy Lookout, Korora just north of Coffs Harbour. Bask in the ambience of 360-degree views and immerse in Gumbaynggirr culture through stories, songs, language and the uses of native plants. Runs every second Saturday year-round.
Learn more about Giingan Gumbaynggirr Cultural Experience
3. Budj Bim Cultural Landscape Tourism
Budj Bim Cultural Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage listed area near Portland in Western Victoria and is one of Australia’s great national heritage landscapes.
The First Nations owned and operated Budj Bim Cultural Landscape Tourism offer a guided experience of southwest Victoria’s Gunditjmara Country, where First Nations history dates back more than 39,000 years, characterised by the region’s ancient aquaculture systems.
Learn more about Budj Bim Cultural Landscape Tourism
4. Yukuna Glow
Founded on Wonnarua country (Hunter Valley, NSW), Yukuna Glow creates beauty products that are inspired by culture, connection and country. Providing a range of products that are vegan friendly and cruelty free, plus clothing and homewares that perfectly compliment their beauty products.
Learn more about Yukuna Glow
5. Mabu Buru Tours
Mabu Buru Tours is owned and operated by Johani Mamid, a traditional Yawuru man whose Country is located in and around Broome in the Kimberley region of Western Australia.
Created in 2019, Johani began conducting On-Country cultural experiences. His vision is to help build a bridge between different cultures, to increase awareness about Aboriginal people and to encourage visitors to experience Country through the eyes of traditional custodians. Johani is proud to share his knowledge of his Country with visitors, show you the local wildlife and tell stories of the ancient, continuing connection that his people share with this land.
Learn more about Mabu Buru Tours
6. SEIT Patji
This exclusive experience at Uluru in the Northern Territory allows you to join a traditional Uluru family in their homelands and experience their culture and family history. No trip to Uluru is complete without a tour to connect and really learn about the culture of Uluru and surrounds. Hear from the Traditional Owners themselves on how Paddy Uluru fought for Aboriginal lands rights to where Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is today.
Learn more about SEIT Patji
Stay nearby: Find accommodation in Yulara and explore more.
7. Little Black Duck
Little Black Duck is proudly located on Wiradjuri Country (in regional NSW) in the quaint village of Uranquinty on the outskirts of Wagga Wagga. Little Black Duck is the brainchild of Ashleigh Pengelly and is a 100% Aboriginal-owned small business created in 2015.
Combining creative, fun and functional art pieces with the hope of sparking meaningful conversations within your home, Little Black Duck uses a range of unique mediums and surfaces to create a memorable brand of functional art that is loved the world over.
Learn more about Little Black Duck
8. Mabu Mabu
Mabu Mabu is a saying in the Torres Strait that means ‘help yourself.’ It’s what you say before you dig into a big meal with friends and family. Torres Strait food culture is all about sharing, and this experience is fundamental to the business. Whether you are joining for a meal, an event, or picking up some products at home, Mabu Mabu want you to feel part of their village.
Nornie Bero is the head chef and business owner of Mabu Mabu. Originally from Mer Island in the Torres Strait and now based in Melbourne, Nornie has been a professional chef for over 20 years. She is on a mission to put First Nations ingredients in kitchens all across Australia.
Learn more about Mabu Mabu
Visit Mabu Mabu in Melbourne and make a weekend of it.
9. Kakadu Billabong Safari Camp
Kakadu Billabong Safari Camp lies on Murumburr Clan Country on the edge of the Jim Jim river system. The Traditional Owners and family group of Murumburr Clan live through cultural practices on their Country, managing the landscape and wildlife.
Explore the billabongs, wetlands and sacred rock art sites of Kakadu National Park, led by local guides who are passionate about sharing the stories and secrets of this breathtaking region.
Learn more about Kakadu Billabong Safari Camp
Stay nearby: If you’re thinking of extending your NT adventure, check out these deals.
10. Dreamtime Dive and Snorkel
Dreamtime Dive and Snorkel is a unique Great Barrier Reef day tour cruise incorporating the world’s oldest living culture and some of Australia’s most amazing marine life. Traditional Owners have passed down their dream time stories over tens of thousands of years and now you can share them too. Indigenous sea rangers share stories on Gunggandji Sea Country including Reef Creation Story as well as song, dance and music.
Learn more about Dreamtime Dive and Snorkel
Stay nearby: Find accommodation in Cairns to enjoy this wonderful experience.
Don’t forget
It’s important to continually educate yourself about the unique challenges faced by First Nations businesses and to listen and learn from First Nations voices. By amplifying those voices and supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs, you can help foster a more inclusive and equitable business landscape in Australia.
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