The leaders discussed aspects of Aboriginal business ownership and employment for Aboriginal people commenting on issues such as self-determination, business opportunities, the involvement of young people in the workforce, and diversity.
The panel reflected on how leaving Country and community could be a barrier for some people, generational employment and young employees of the present being business owners of the future.
Claire Beattie said
“We need to step up, stand together and stand up for NSW and for First Nations people”
The Leaders in Conversation panel featured The Hon.
Ben Franklin MLC, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, who is based on the NSW Far North Coast in Bundjalung Country;
David Harris MP, Shadow Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty;
Debbie Barwick, Chief Executive Officer,
NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce (a Gamilaroi woman); and
Claire Beattie, Executive Director, Asset Activations,
School Infrastructure NSW at the
NSW Department of Education (a Yorta Yorta woman). The moderator was
Steven Collins, Aboriginal Liaison Officer for the
Parliament of NSW, who is a Pitta Pitta man.
Watch the full discussion
Find out more about WOB's Cultural Diversity Committee
HERE