Representatives of the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation (ILSC) will be appearing before the Northern Australia Committee on Thursday 2 December for its Inquiry into the Opportunities and Challenges of the Engagement of Traditional Owners in the Economic Development of Northern Australia.

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 1 December 2021

Representatives of the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation (ILSC) will be appearing before the Northern Australia Committee on Thursday 2 December for its Inquiry into the Opportunities and Challenges of the Engagement of Traditional Owners in the Economic Development of Northern Australia. This public hearing will give the Committee an opportunity to examine the role of Commonwealth entities like the ILSC in facilitating economic development in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Committee Chair Warren Entsch said that, ‘Understanding the challenges and successes of bodies like ILSC is an important part of this inquiry. The Commonwealth Government should be at the forefront of efforts to open up economic opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. The Committee is keen to ask questions about the performance of ILSC and investigate areas where improvements can be made.' ‘Knowledge of how the ILSC operates in northern Australia will be critical. The Committee will also be interested to learn more about the Corporation’s engagement with remote and very remote communities.’ A program for the public hearing is available on the Committee’s website. Public hearing details Date: Thursday, 2 December 2021 Time: 9:00 am to 9:30 am AEDT Location: by teleconference Media enquiries Hon Warren Entsch MP warren.entsch.mp@aph.gov.au 02 6277 4803 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4162 jscna@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Northern Australia Committee has resumed its Inquiry into the Opportunities and Challenges of the Engagement of Traditional Owners in the Economic Development of Northern Australia with the aim to complete a report before the end of parliament.

Media release issue date: Thursday, 25 November 2021

The Northern Australia Committee has resumed its Inquiry into the Opportunities and Challenges of the Engagement of Traditional Owners in the Economic Development of Northern Australia with the aim to complete a report before the end of parliament. On Friday 26 November, the Committee will hear from representatives of Supply Nation. This opportunity will allow the Committee to understand the organisations perspectives on key opportunities and challenges that impact engagement of Traditional Owners, and to inquire about the specific role Supply Nation has in this area.  Committee Chair Warren Entsch stated that, ‘It is important to hear from key bodies that work in the area of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander economic development as they are the ones that can give critical insights into key problems and opportunities.’ ‘It will be important to important to understand how effective Supply Nation has been in the field of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander development because it is importantly to understand the effect of such organisations to the progress of Indigenous economic development.’ A program for the public hearing is available on the Committee’s website. Public hearing details Date: Friday, 26 November 2021 Time: 10:00 am to 10:45 am AEDT Location: by teleconference Media inquiries Hon Warren Entsch MP warren.entsch.mp@aph.gov.au 02 6277 4803 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4162 jscna@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Indigenous Affairs Committee has today presented its report on Indigenous participation in employment and business. The report makes recommendations to enhance Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation in the Australian economy.

Media release issue date: Monday, 30 August 2021

The Indigenous Affairs Committee has today presented its report on Indigenous participation in employment and business. The report makes recommendations to enhance Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation in the Australian economy. Chair of the Committee, Julian Leeser MP, said that ‘one of Australia’s most important economic and social policy goals is to improve the economic participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Having a job or running a business can be life changing.’ ‘Witnesses told the Committee during the inquiry that owning a business gives people greater freedom, choice and independence. It can provide pride, purpose, a legacy, and a sense of achievement. Many of those sentiments are also true about having a job’, Mr Leeser said. The report notes the great success of the Federal Government’s Indigenous Procurement Policy (IPP) but that improvements could still be made. These include performance measures that go beyond just the number and value of awarded contracts to include employment outcomes and skills transfers for Indigenous people, the use of company profits and the ability of business to attract commercial contracts. Mr Leeser stated that ‘as the IPP becomes an established part of the culture of Commonwealth agencies, it is important to ensure the policy continues to serve its purpose of driving economic development and employment.’ The other central theme of this inquiry was the sustainable employment pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, including a lack of access to relevant training, lack of culturally safe workplaces, a low availability of mentoring for young Indigenous job seekers, having a police record, and few long-term job opportunities. The Government currently has two major employment services available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander jobseekers: Jobactive which covers most of the Australian population and the Community Development Program (CDP) in remote areas. In addition, Vocation Training and Employment Centres (VTEC) work with Jobactive and CDP providers to help match, mentor, and place longer-term unemployed jobseekers. The Committee noted that the Government is changing its employment services policy for all Australian jobseekers with the New Employment Services Model to commence in July 2022. At the same time the Government has announced a new remote jobs program to replace CDP in 2023, to be codesigned with Aboriginal and Torre Strait Islander communities. The Committee has made recommendations in relation to these new programs, including a national Indigenous Jobactive provider; greater collaboration and integration between Jobactive and VTEC; more incentives to place people into jobs long term; and better alignment with Jobactive and CDP activity requirements. Mr Leeser emphasised the Committee’s views in the report, stating: ‘There should be more community leadership in the design of activities under CDP; and a focus not on welfare, but on part-time work for part-time pay given the realities of the thin labour markets in remote Australia. There should also be a focus on the development of locally generated entrepreneurial activity.’ The report makes 17 recommendations to Government and can be accessed and downloaded from the inquiry website. Media inquiries Office of Julian Leeser MP Media contact: Mike Morrow 0400 909 151 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4559 IndigenousAffairs.Reps@aph.gov.au

Indigenous Affairs Committee to speak with representatives from the Department of Finance, Indigenous Business Australia, the National Indigenous Australians Agency, Supply Nation, Accor Hotel Group and Voyages Indigenous Tourism in the final series of public hearings for its Inquiry into Pathways and Participation Opportunities for Indigenous Australians in Employment and Business.

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 21 July 2021

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will this week speak with representatives from the Department of Finance, Indigenous Business Australia, the National Indigenous Australians Agency, Supply Nation, Accor Hotel Group, and Voyages Indigenous Tourism in the final series of public hearings for its Inquiry into Pathways and Participation Opportunities for Indigenous Australians in Employment and Business. Committee Chair, Julian Leeser MP, noted that this discussion will offer key stakeholders an opportunity to make final observations on matters which have arisen throughout the inquiry. ‘The Committee looks forward in particular to discussing the merits of current Government procurement and employment policies, as well as suggested improvements which have been canvassed by various stakeholders.’ ‘The Committee has been focused throughout this inquiry on ways to overcome some of the barriers to employment and business for Indigenous Australians. These final hearings will shed further light on opportunities to do this through various Government programs’, Mr Leeser said. Public hearing details Date: Thursday, 22 July 2021 Time: 12.00 pm to 5.00 pm AEST A live audio stream of the hearing will be accessible at www.aph.gov.au/Watch_Read_Listen. A full program will be available at the inquiry website. Media enquiries Office of Julian Leeser MP Media contact: Ms Annie Phillips 02 9980 1822 Annie.phillips@aph.gov.au For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4559 IndigenousAffairs.Reps@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will hear from stakeholders in Far North Queensland and the Northern Territory this week as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business. Due to recent lockdowns, these hearings will be conducted by conference call.

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 7 July 2021

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will hear from stakeholders in Far North Queensland and the Northern Territory this week as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business. Due to recent lockdowns, these hearings will be conducted by conference call. Committee Chair Julian Leeser MP noted that Land Councils, Aboriginal Corporations, Indigenous enterprises and business associations, as well as employment service providers and training organisations would be among the many stakeholders appearing before the Committee over three days of hearings. ‘These hearings will contribute significantly to the existing body of evidence for this inquiry. The Committee looks forward to discussing gaps and opportunities in the workforce and future growth sectors that could result in employment and enterprise options for Indigenous Australians,’ Mr Leeser said. ‘We will be particularly interested to hear from CDP and Jobactive providers about their experiences helping Indigenous people find work. It will also be very useful to learn about continuing challenges to Indigenous participation and how Government can better facilitate these opportunities.’ Public hearing details Date: Wednesday, 7 July 2021 Time: 9.30am to 4.00pm AEST Date: Thursday, 8 July 2021 Time: 9.30am to 4.40pm AEST Date: Friday, 9 July 2021 Time: 9.20am to 4.50pm AEST A live audio stream of the hearing will be accessible at https://www.aph.gov.au/Watch_Read_Listen. Full programs will be available at the inquiry website. Media inquiries Office of Julian Leeser MP Media contact: Ms Annie Phillips (02) 9980 1822 Annie.phillips@aph.gov.au For background information Committee Secretariat (02) 6277 4559 IndigenousAffairs.Reps@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will this week conduct a roundtable discussion with representatives from the Departments of Health, Defence, Social Services, and Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications on the Indigenous Procurement Policy (IPP) as part of its Inquiry into Pathways and Participation Opportunities for Indigenous Australians in Employment and Business.

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 16 June 2021

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will this week conduct a roundtable discussion with representatives from the Departments of Health, Defence, Social Services, and Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications on the Indigenous Procurement Policy (IPP) as part of its Inquiry into Pathways and Participation Opportunities for Indigenous Australians in Employment and Business. Committee Chair, Julian Leeser MP, noted that this discussion on the implementation of the IPP, and on the Indigenous suppliers contracted through this policy, will make a valuable contribution to the inquiry. ‘The Committee looks forward to discussing the goods and services that departments now procure from Indigenous businesses, and how the nature and volume of Indigenous suppliers may have changed, under the IPP.’ ‘We will also be interested to hear about the retention of Indigenous staff in these respective departments. It will be useful to consider how Indigenous employment opportunities could be improved across Government departments and agencies,’ Mr Leeser said. Public hearing details Date: Friday, 18 June 2021 Time: 1.30pm to 3.00pm AEST A live audio stream of the hearing will be accessible at https://www.aph.gov.au/Watch_Read_Listen. A full program will be available at the inquiry website. Media inquiries Office of Julian Leeser MP Media contact: Ms Annie Phillips (02) 9980 1822 Annie.phillips@aph.gov.au For background information Committee Secretariat (02) 6277 4559 IndigenousAffairs.Reps@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Glen Drug and Rehabilitation Centre will give evidence to the House Standing Committee on Indigenous Affairs this Thursday and talk about the success and challenges it has faced helping both Indigenous and non-Indigenous men move into employment.

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 2 June 2021

The Glen Drug and Rehabilitation Centre will give evidence to the House Standing Committee on Indigenous Affairs this Thursday and talk about the success and challenges it has faced helping both Indigenous and non-Indigenous men move into employment. The hearing is part of the Committee’s inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for First Nations peoples in employment and business. Witnesses will be appearing via videoconference. Committee Chair, Julian Leeser MP, said that the Committee visited ‘The Glen’ during its public hearings on the Central Coast in April and was very impressed with its work. ‘The Glen has operated since 1994 and has helped both Indigenous and non-Indigenous men with a history of addiction and contact with the criminal justice system to overcome significant hurdles and move into employment. The Committee noted, however, that these men still faced immense structural barriers which can make it very difficult to find work.’ ‘The Committee looks forward to speaking with The Glen about their successes as well as the ongoing challenges for participants in their program’, Mr Leeser said. Public hearing details Date: Thursday, 3 June 2021 Time: 11.40am to 12.25pm AEDT A live audio stream of the hearing will be accessible at https://www.aph.gov.au/Watch_Read_Listen. A full program will be available at the inquiry website. Media inquiries Office of Julian Leeser MP Media contact: Ms Annie Phillips (02) 9980 1822 Annie.phillips@aph.gov.au For background information Committee Secretariat (02) 6277 4559 IndigenousAffairs.Reps@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) and the Department of Education, Skills and Employment (DESE) will return to give further evidence to the Indigenous Affairs Committee in a joint hearing this Thursday as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for First Nations peoples in employment and business.

Media release issue date: Tuesday, 25 May 2021

The National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) and the Department of Education, Skills and Employment (DESE) will return to give further evidence to the Indigenous Affairs Committee in a joint hearing this Thursday as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for First Nations peoples in employment and business. Committee Chair, Julian Leeser MP, noted that both departments play a key role in supporting Indigenous people into work. ‘DESE is responsible for managing employment service provision through Jobactive, while NIAA administers the Community Development Program (CDP) and Vocational Training and Employment Centres (VTEC).’ ‘The Committee looks forward to discussing these programs, in addition to Indigenous procurement and the tendering processes for Indigenous employment services.’ Mr Leeser said. Public hearing details Date: Thursday, 27 May 2021 Time: 11.40am to 12.25pm AEDT A live audio stream of the hearing will be accessible at https://www.aph.gov.au/Watch_Read_Listen. A full program will be available at the inquiry website. Media inquiries Office of Julian Leeser MP Media contact: Ms Annie Phillips (02) 9980 1822 Annie.phillips@aph.gov.au For background information Committee Secretariat (02) 6277 4559 IndigenousAffairs.Reps@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will hear from the Department of Education, Skills and Employment (DESE) this Thursday as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business.

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 12 May 2021

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will hear from the Department of Education, Skills and Employment (DESE) this Thursday as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business. Committee Chair, Julian Leeser MP, noted that one of the Department’s key responsibilities is managing employment service provision, and that these services have assisted thousands of Indigenous Australians with job opportunities. ‘The Committee looks forward to discussing the Department’s Indigenous procurement policies and its tendering processes for Indigenous employment services.’ Mr Leeser said. Public hearing details Date: Thursday, 13 May 2021 Time: 11.40am to 12.25pm AEDT A live audio stream of the hearing will be accessible at https://www.aph.gov.au/Watch_Read_Listen. A full program will be available at the inquiry website. Media inquiries Office of Julian Leeser MP Media contact: Ms Annie Phillips (02) 9980 1822 Annie.phillips@aph.gov.au For background information Committee Secretariat (02) 6277 4559 IndigenousAffairs.Reps@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

Witnesses on the Central Coast of New South Wales and in Western Sydney will speak to the Indigenous Affairs Committee this week as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business.

Media release issue date: Tuesday, 27 April 2021

Witnesses on the Central Coast of New South Wales and in Western Sydney will speak to the Indigenous Affairs Committee this week as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business. The Committee will also make site visits to The Glen Centre and Yarpa Business Hub. Stakeholders appearing will include representatives from land councils, Indigenous enterprises and business associations, including: Barang Regional Alliance, Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council, NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce, Speaking in Colour, Asquith Workforce, BlaQ Aboriginal Corporation, Muru Mittigar, and NSW Aboriginal Land Council. Committee Chair Julian Leeser MP advised that ‘These hearings will contribute significantly to the existing body of evidence for this inquiry. The Committee looks forward to discussing gaps and opportunities in the workforce and future growth sectors that could result in employment and enterprise options for Indigenous Australians’. ‘We look forward to hearing from Indigenous business owners about their experiences running successful enterprises. It will be particularly useful to learn about present challenges and how the Government can better facilitate business opportunities,’ Mr Leeser said. Public hearing details Date: Wednesday, 28 April 2021 Time: 10:00am to 1:15pm AEDT Venue: Mercure Kooindah Waters Hotel, Wyong.  Date: Thursday, 29 April 2021 Time: 9:00am to 1:00pm AEDT  Venue: Yarpa Business and Employment Hub, Liverpool.   Interested parties are encouraged to listen to the audio live streaming. A full program is available at the inquiry website. Media inquiries Office of Julian Leeser MP Media contact: Ms Annie Phillips 02 9980 1822 Annie.phillips@aph.gov.au For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4559 IndigenousAffairs.Reps@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business is holding further public hearings by conference call on Wednesday 7 April, 2021.

Media release issue date: Tuesday, 6 April 2021

The inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business is holding further public hearings by conference call on Wednesday 7 April, 2021. Julian Leeser MP, Chair of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Indigenous Affairs, noted that stakeholders appearing will include health organisations, Indigenous businesses, university researchers and government agencies. ‘These hearings will contribute significantly to the existing body of evidence for this inquiry. The Committee looks forward to discussing gaps and opportunities in the workforce and future growth sectors that could result in employment and enterprise options for Indigenous Australians,’ Mr Leeser said. ‘We will be particularly interested to hear from Indigenous business owners about their experiences running successful enterprises. It will be particularly useful to learn about present challenges and how Government can better facilitate business opportunities.’ Public hearing details Date: Wednesday, 7 April 2021 Time: 9.50 am to 4.00 pm AEST A live audio stream of the hearing will be accessible at https://www.aph.gov.au/Watch_Read_Listen. A full program will be available at the inquiry website. Media inquiries Office of Julian Leeser MP Media contact: Ms Annie Phillips (02) 9980 1822 Annie.phillips@aph.gov.au For background information Committee Secretariat (02) 6277 4559 IndigenousAffairs.Reps@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will hear from the Minerals Council of Australia and First Nations Media Australia this Thursday as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business.

Media release issue date: Monday, 22 March 2021

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will hear from the Minerals Council of Australia and First Nations Media Australia this Thursday as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business. Committee Chair Julian Leeser MP said that both organisations will provide valuable insights to the inquiry. The minerals sector has played an important role in Indigenous employment and procurement, and the media sector also provides job and training opportunities for First Nations people across Australia. ‘Mining companies are key employers of First Nations peoples, we look forward to hearing more about programs they have developed to create economic opportunities in remote areas. Indigenous broadcasting employs roughly 500 people nationally, opening up job opportunities for First Nations peoples in other related areas. The Committee looks forward to discussing further ways to promote Indigenous participation in these sectors,’ Mr Leeser said. Witnesses will be attending the hearing via conference call. Public hearing details Date: Thursday, 25 March 2021 Time: 11.40am to 12.55pm AEDT A live audio stream of the hearing will be accessible at https://www.aph.gov.au/Watch_Read_Listen. A full program will be available at the inquiry website. Media inquiries Office of Julian Leeser MP Media contact: Ms Annie Phillips (02) 9980 1822 Annie.phillips@aph.gov.au For background information Committee Secretariat (02) 6277 4559 IndigenousAffairs.Reps@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will hear from Woolworths Group and Aboriginal Peak Organisations Northern Territory (APO NT) this Thursday as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business. Witnesses will be attending by conference call.

Media release issue date: Tuesday, 23 February 2021

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will hear from Woolworths Group and Aboriginal Peak Organisations Northern Territory (APO NT) this Thursday as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business. Witnesses will be attending by conference call. Committee Chair Julian Leeser MP said that both organisations will provide valuable insights to the inquiry as Woolworths is an industry leader in Indigenous recruitment and APO NT is a respected voice in Aboriginal governance. ‘Woolworths currently employs over 4,500 First Nations people. Since partnering with the Government under the Employment Parity Initiative, more than 2,800 Indigenous job seekers have been offered employment with the company. APO NT has long been an advocate for Indigenous self-determination and economic development. The Committee looks forward to discussing ways to reduce barriers to Indigenous participation and economic opportunities at this hearing,’ Mr Leeser said. Public hearing details Date: Thursday, 25 February 2021 Time: 11.40am to 12.50pm AEDT A live audio stream of the hearing will be accessible at https://www.aph.gov.au/Watch_Read_Listen. A full program will be available at the inquiry website. Media inquiries Office of Julian Leeser MP Media contact: Ms Annie Phillips (02) 9980 1822 Annie.phillips@aph.gov.au For background information Committee Secretariat (02) 6277 4559 IndigenousAffairs.Reps@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will hear from Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) this Thursday as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business. Witnesses will be attending by conference call.

Media release issue date: Monday, 15 February 2021

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will hear from Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) this Thursday as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business. Witnesses will be attending by conference call. Committee Chair Julian Leeser MP said that IBA has played a significant role in providing investment support for Indigenous businesses over many decades and will provide valuable input into the inquiry. ‘IBA has now been assisting Indigenous entrepreneurs for 30 years to start and grow their businesses. The Committee looks forward to discussing ways to further promote economic self-sufficiency among First Nations people at this hearing,’ Mr Leeser said. Public hearing details Date: Thursday 18 February 2021 Time: 11.45am to 12.25pm AEDT A live webcast of the hearing will be accessible at https://www.aph.gov.au/Watch_Read_Listen. A full program will be available at the inquiry website. Media inquiries Office of Julian Leeser MP Media contact: Ms Annie Phillips (02) 9980 1822 Annie.phillips@aph.gov.au   For background information Committee Secretariat (02) 6277 4559 IndigenousAffairs.Reps@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

By unanimous resolution of the Standing Committee on Indigenous Affairs, the current inquiry by into Pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business has been temporarily suspended.

Media release issue date: Monday, 30 March 2020

By unanimous resolution of the Standing Committee on Indigenous Affairs, the current inquiry by into Pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business has been temporarily suspended. Committee Chair Julian Leeser MP said that ‘in light of the continuing and evolving public health and economic challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Committee has decided to suspend its activities until further notice. The Committee greatly appreciates the contributions made to this inquiry so far. Written evidence to the inquiry will continue to be accepted and instructions on making a submission can be accessed by visiting the committee’s webpage. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and business owners can also interact with the inquiry without having to prepare a written submission by completing an online survey. This survey can be completed anonymously if desired and can be accessed here. Media inquiries Office of Julian Leeser MP Media contact: Ms Annie Phillips (02) 9980 1822 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4559 IndigenousAffairs.Reps@aph.gov.au

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will hear from Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) this Thursday as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business.

Media release issue date: Tuesday, 24 March 2020

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will hear from Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) this Thursday as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business. This public hearing will be conducted entirely remotely with all Committee members and witnesses attending by teleconference. Committee Chair Julian Leeser MP said that IBA has played a significant role in providing investment support for Indigenous businesses over many decades and will provide valuable input into the inquiry. ‘IBA has now been assisting Indigenous entrepreneurs for 30 years to start and grow their businesses. The Committee looks forward to discussing ways to further promote economic self-sufficiency among First Nations people at this hearing,’ Mr Leeser said. Public hearing details Date: Thursday 26 March 2020 Time: 11.40am to 12.30pm AEDT Location: By teleconference. A live webcast of the hearing will be accessible at https://www.aph.gov.au/Watch_Read_Listen. A full program will be available at the inquiry website. Media inquiries Office of Julian Leeser MP Media contact: Ms Annie Phillips (02) 9980 1822 Annie.phillips@aph.gov.au For background information Committee Secretariat (02) 6277 4559 IndigenousAffairs.Reps@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Indigenous Affairs Committee in the Federal Parliament has launched a new survey seeking your feedback on ways to make employment and business ownership easier to access for Indigenous Australians.

Media release issue date: Thursday, 12 March 2020

The Indigenous Affairs Committee in the Federal Parliament has launched a new survey seeking your feedback on ways to make employment and business ownership easier to access for Indigenous Australians. The survey can be accessed at the following link. This survey forms part of the committee’s current Inquiry into Pathways and Participation Opportunities for Indigenous Australians in Employment and Business. Committee Chair Julian Leeser says it makes having your say to the Parliament easier and faster than ever before. ‘A focus of this inquiry is removing barriers, and what better way to start than by removing barriers to participating in the inquiry?’ Mr Leeser said. ‘You can fill out the survey in only five minutes, and if there’s something you’d like to raise with the Committee in more detail you can still make a longer written submission to the inquiry and be considered as a possible witness at a future public hearing.’ The Committee plans to announce hearings around regional Australia in the coming weeks as part of the inquiry. You can find more information about the inquiry on the Committee’s website. Media inquiries Office of Julian Leeser MP Media contact: Ms Annie Phillips (02) 9980 1822 Annie.phillips@aph.gov.au For background information Committee Secretariat (02) 6277 4559 IndigenousAffairs.Reps@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will hear from the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) this Thursday as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business.

Media release issue date: Wednesday, 4 March 2020

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will hear from the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) this Thursday as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business. Committee Chair Julian Leeser MP said that the NIAA has a key role in supporting opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. ‘The NIAA administers the Community Development Program (CDP) aimed at increasing Indigenous participation in work and the Indigenous Procurement Policy (IPP) that requires Indigenous-owned businesses to be considered for certain Government contracts.’ ‘The Committee looks forward to discussing the effectiveness of these schemes and other Indigenous participation policies with the NIAA,’ Mr Leeser said. Public hearing details Date: Thursday 5 March 2020 Time: 11.40am to 12.30pm Location: Committee Room 1R3, Parliament House, Canberra A full program will be available at the inquiry website. Media inquiries Office of Julian Leeser MP Media contact: Ms Annie Phillips (02) 9980 1822 Annie.phillips@aph.gov.au For background information Committee Secretariat (02) 6277 4559 IndigenousAffairs.Reps@aph.gov.au

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will hear from different Indigenous-owned consulting firms on Thursday as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business.

Media release issue date: Tuesday, 25 February 2020

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will hear from different Indigenous-owned consulting firms on Thursday as part of its inquiry into pathways and participation opportunities for Indigenous Australians in employment and business. Committee Chair Julian Leeser MP said there is now is a huge variety of businesses that are owned and operated by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. ‘This hearing is an opportunity for the Committee to listen to Indigenous business owners and understand more about what they are seeing in the sector, what opportunities exist and also identify the barriers preventing more Indigenous people obtaining jobs and starting their own businesses.’ The Committee will hear from Indigenous-owned enterprises that provide professional IT and other business services. ‘The perspectives of these businesses in the professional marketplace will be an important contribution to the inquiry,’ Mr Leeser said. Public hearing details Date: Thursday 27 February 2020 Time: 11.40am to 12.30pm Location: Committee Room 1R3, Parliament House, Canberra A full program will be available at the inquiry website. Media inquiries Office of Julian Leeser MP Media contact: Ms Annie Phillips (02) 9980 1822 For background information Committee Secretariat (02) 6277 4559 IndigenousAffairs.Reps@aph.gov.au

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will hear from a number of Indigenous businesses on Tuesday 11 February 2020 in Canberra as part of its Inquiry into Pathways and Participation Opportunities for Indigenous Australians in Employment and Business.

Media release issue date: Tuesday, 11 February 2020

The Indigenous Affairs Committee will hear from a number of Indigenous businesses on Tuesday 11 February 2020 in Canberra as part of its Inquiry into Pathways and Participation Opportunities for Indigenous Australians in Employment and Business. Committee Chair Julian Leeser MP said that the views and experiences of successful Indigenous-owned enterprises will be hugely important for the inquiry. ‘The Indigenous Business Trade Fair in Parliament House tomorrow will provide an opportune time to hold discussions with some of the participants’ Mr Leeser said. ‘Who better than existing Indigenous companies to advise us on what government might do to foster more business start-ups and greater economic independence among our First Nations communities’ he added. ‘This is our first public hearing and we hope to speak to many more of these businesses in the coming months in a variety of sectors.’ The public hearing will be from 12.30-1.30pm and the full program will be available at the inquiry website. Media inquiries Office of Julian Leeser MP Media contact: Ms Annie Phillips (02) 9980 1822 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4559 IndigenousAffairs.Reps@aph.gov.au