Aboriginal and Local Business Participation in Recovery Program WA

Purpose and Program Overview

The Aboriginal and Local Business Participation in Recovery Program WA is a dedicated initiative designed to support First Nations-owned small businesses and sole traders in the Fitzroy Valley region to recover and grow after the flood damage caused by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Ellie in late 2022. This program aims to boost the economic participation of Aboriginal businesses by providing financial assistance for recovery-related activities such as insurance, business training, and acquiring specialist equipment necessary for flood recovery works.

Funded jointly under the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and delivered by the Western Australian Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), the program not only offers financial grants but also includes advisory and business support services. The engagement of Indigenous business consultancy Morrgul enhances participation, capacity building, and involvement of Aboriginal businesses in regional recovery and reconstruction projects, thereby supporting sustainable economic empowerment in the region.

Key Grant Details

• Grant amount: Up to $25,000 for services and training. Up to $100,000 for equipment and assets.
• Application open and close dates: Applications are open and will close on 31 March 2026.
• Eligible industries or business types: Aboriginal-owned small businesses and sole traders.
• Required co-contributions: No co-contributions are mentioned.
• Location/state/territory applicability: Western Australia, specifically the Kimberley region.

Priority Sectors

The program is for Aboriginal-owned businesses participating in flood recovery efforts. There are no other specific priority sectors listed. The focus is on businesses that can provide goods and services for the reconstruction of the Fitzroy Valley.

Funding Scope

The program has two funding streams:

• Services and Training Grants: These grants provide up to $25,000. They cover non-capital costs. These include insurance, business training, and professional services.
• Equipment and Asset Grants: These grants provide up to $100,000. They cover the hiring, leasing, or purchasing of specialist assets.

Grant Amount in Total

The program is a joint initiative funded by the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. The total funding pool is not publicly specified.

Eligibility Criteria

• Business structure or size: An Aboriginal-owned small business or sole trader.
• Registered business location: The business must operate and be located in the Shire of Derby-West Kimberley. Businesses in Halls Creek, Broome, or Wyndham-East Kimberley can apply if they have a two-year history of providing goods and services in Derby-West Kimberley.
• ABN/GST status: Must have an active ABN and a business bank account.
• Other: The business must be registered with Supply Nation, the Aboriginal Business Directory WA, or the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations. It must also have or be getting appropriate business insurance, licences, and qualifications.

Eligible Activities and Expenses

The grant supports non-capital and capital costs directly related to flood recovery. This includes:

• Professional services, business training, and accreditation.
• Insurance premiums.
• Purchasing, hiring, or leasing equipment and assets.

Assessment Process

The provided information does not state whether the grant is competitive or entitlement-based. The key criteria for assessment are not explicitly detailed in the provided data.

Recent Program Updates

The grant is a direct response to a natural disaster. Applications are open until 31 March 2026. This is a new program.

Application Tips

• Double-check all eligibility criteria before applying.
• Be ready to provide proof of your business’s location.
• Make sure you have the required registrations, such as with Supply Nation or the Aboriginal Business Directory WA.
• The program provides business support through the Indigenous consultancy, Morrgul.

Where to Get Help

Consider consulting with a professional grant specialist like Pattens Group. We offer initial assessments to review your business’s eligibility and evaluate how well your project aligns with the grant’s objectives. You can also visit relevant government websites for application templates and further guidance.