Aboriginal Business Leadership Initiative (ABLI)
The Aboriginal Business Leadership Initiative (ABLI) is a State Government funded, culturally safe program specifically designed to empower Aboriginal leaders, business owners and emerging entrepreneurs across the Goldfields-Esperance region.
The program provides comprehensive development and support to strengthen leadership, operational skills and business resilience for long-term success. It is designed with a flexible and tailored approach ensuring participants get the support they need to grow their businesses.
The Goldfields-Esperance Development Commission, alongside the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development has engaged Kaala Barna Aboriginal Consultancy to run the Aboriginal Business Leadership Initiative for 2025-26.
The Aboriginal Business Leadership Initiative was established in 2017 and has been delivered across several WA regions, supporting a total of 72 Aboriginal businesses to date.
Applications are now OPEN
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What can I expect?
The core of the program involves structured training sessions delivered in a culturally safe environment.
3 x 2-day workshops over an 8-week period
Dedicated 1-on-1 mentoring and counselling sessions throughout the program
Workshops will be held at a central venue in Kalgoorlie-Boulder
Travel support may be available for eligible applicants to ensure everyone can attend
A graduation ceremony and dinner will be held for participants and their family members to attend
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When is it run?
The program will begin in March 2026, with the graduation ceremony in June 2026. The GEDC team is available to speak to you about your business and involvement in the ABLI.
January – February 2026 – Kaala Barna will visit the region to meet applicants and find out about your business needs.
February 2026 – Successful applicants will be selected based on their commitment to growth and fit for the program’s outcomes.
March – May 2026 – Program commencement, including training sessions, mentoring and counselling.
June 2026 – Graduation Ceremony.
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Who can apply?
To apply for the ABLI program, you must be:
An Aboriginal person.
A current business owner or an emerging entrepreneur.
Living in the Goldfields-Esperance region (Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Esperance, and surrounding areas).
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APPLY NOW
Applications for ABLI 2025-26 in the Goldfields-Esperance region are now open. Click the button below to apply.
Objectives
- Develop Aboriginal business leaders’ skills, knowledge, confidence, motivation and networks to make sound and sustainable business decisions.
- Empower Aboriginal people to be resilient and capable business leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators who can harness growth opportunities.
- Support the development of emerging and existing local Aboriginal businesses to thrive in our region.
Elements of ABLI
- Workshops & Training – Focused sessions to strengthen planning, improve financial decision making and understand compliance
- Mentoring – Tailored one-on-one guidance from experienced Aboriginal business leaders.
- Counselling – Confidential support to address barriers and personal challenged affecting business growth
- Peer Learning – Network and share experiences with other Aboriginal entrepreneurs in the region.
About Kaala Barna
- Kaala Barna is an Aboriginal owned and operated consultancy based on Whadjuk Noongar Boodjar. They support WA organisations strive to contribute meaningfully towards creating a world where Aboriginal people can prosper and thrive by empowering clients with the strategies, tools and knowledge they need to achieve their goals.
Have a question?
Kaala Barna Aboriginal Consultancy – ABLI@karlabarna.com.au
GEDC – info@gedc.wa.gov.au