The mining industry has contributed $1.64 billion to Supply Nation’s record $5.83 billion in Indigenous procurement outlay during the 2024-25 financial year, making it the most financially impactful sector for the organisation.
Supply Nation’s expenditure increased by $1.23 billion from the last financial year. Of the organisation’s corporate, government and not-for-profit members eligible to record procurement transactions, 96 per cent submitted data confirming the result.
Awabakal woman and Supply Nation chief executive officer (CEO) Kate Russell said that amid an uncertain political period and with cost-of-living pressures, it was remarkable for the organisation and its members to have achieved such a result.
“Achieving this milestone in procurement dollars with Indigenous-owned businesses is remarkable and shows real commitment by both our members and Indigenous suppliers to economic empowerment and positive change through business collaboration,” Russell said.
Following the mining industry was construction with a procurement spend of $1.26 billion, facilities management services with over $284 million, and the financial and insurance sector reaching a total of $145 million.
Member organisations based in New South Wales recorded the highest overall figure with $1.71 billion; followed by Western Australia with $1.43 billion, and the Australian Capital Territory with $1.13 billion.
“Our members’ total procurement spend confirms that the Indigenous business sector is growing and having a positive impact on improving the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” Russell said.
“Our entrepreneurs and business owners are contributing to building intergenerational wealth and opportunity, they are closing the gap, this should be celebrated.”
A recent report released by the organisation, titled The Sleeping Giant, found that for every dollar of revenue produced by Indigenous-owned businesses, $3.66 of positive economic and social value was generated into the Australian economy.
Over its 16-year history, Supply Nation has facilitated more than $26 billion in procurement spend from its members to verified Indigenous businesses.
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