Starting an Indigenous business

One of the first steps you need to take when starting out is choosing your business structure. Your business structure identifies how you operate as a trading business.

Learn more about the different business structures and how to choose the right one for your business.

Indigenous corporation

If you're a First Nations person and you want to start a company as an Indigenous corporation, you can do this through the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations. Indigenous corporations are eligible for additional benefits.

We understand that starting a business can be difficult. However, there is support available for First Nations business owners.

Grants and support

Use our finder tools to search for the latest grants and programs, business advisers and events.

National support and help

Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) is a government organisation that provides workshops, advice, business support programmes. In some cases they may also provide business finance to eligible Indigenous business owners.

Australian Taxation Office (ATO) provides tax and super information to help First Nations people succeed in their business.

Local support and help

Other assistance may be available depending on the type or location of your business. Have a look at the following local business directories and programs:

• Northern Territory – Aboriginal Business Development Program
• Queensland – Indigenous leadership and networking
• Tasmania – Information and support from the Office of Aboriginal Affairs
• Victoria – Victorian Aboriginal Business Directory
• Western Australia – Aboriginal Business Directory WA.

Registering your business with Supply Nation will list your business on Australia’s largest national directory, Indigenous Business Direct. This will allow companies, government and not-for-profit businesses to find and connect with your business.

Registering is free and takes about 15 minutes.