Backing First Nations businesses to be Deadly in Gippsland

12/02/2025

Two First Nations business owners sit at a booth smiling. The one closet to camera is facing away from the camera, while the one in the background is facing towards the camera, wearing a hat and top adorned with First Nations artwork and the Aboriginal flag.

From artists to tradies, traffic controllers to bushfood growers, First Nations businesses and entrepreneurs are thriving in Gippsland.

And last year, Gippslanders got a taste of what these innovative businesses have to offer at the second annual Deadly in Gippsland First Nations Business Expo.

The two-day event, organised by the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC) with support from Kinaway and Many Rivers, was designed to connect, educate and empower First Nations businesspeople and raise their profile among potential buyers and procurers.

'Building on the success of last year’s event, this was an opportunity to grow the experience to support the evolving needs of the Aboriginal businesses,’ said Rodney Short, Economic Development Manager at GLaWAC.

'Day one celebrated First Nations businesses thriving on Gunaikurnai Country, with 36 stalls featuring a broad range of services available to industry and the broader public.’

‘Day two focused on equipping those businesses with the tools and resources to grow, while supporting aspiring entrepreneurs considering their own business ideas'.

'We had successful First Nations businesspeople talk about how they got started, and their ongoing journeys,' said Kelvin Moffatt, GLaWAC's Aboriginal Business Development Officer.

'Meanwhile, the business owners could also showcase their products and services to potential buyers, making important connections.'

'We also had an incredible network of people and companies attend, so it was great to see so many Aboriginal businesses building those relationships and opportunities with public and private industry players.'

The event reflected the strength of the local Aboriginal community, and how First Nations businesses are making their mark on the regional economy.

Importantly, it was a time to celebrate and acknowledge both excellence and possibility.

'It provided people with a chance to feel proud of themselves and each other. Proud that they are contributing to the local economy, regional economy, and their own back pocket,' said Kelvin.

'It showed those who are newer to the scene that they can move towards business ownership. And that there were people in that room who could invest and help them down that path as well,' he added.

A woman in a green jumper speaking to three First Nations business representatives, standing to the right of frame behind a table upon which sits a range of plant and seed products.

For both Rodney and Kelvin, the event is a milestone along the way to a long-term goal of seeing the number of First Nations businesses in the region increase their market share.

‘It would be great to see potential buyers checking their lists of Aboriginal businesses when new projects arise, and asking them to provide a quote,’ said Rodney.

Potential buyers can use the Victorian Aboriginal business directory at Business Victoria to help find the right supplier to meet their needs.

’We want to see the momentum of Deadly in Gippsland continue to grow, creating more opportunities for First Nations businesses to thrive.’

‘As confidence builds, we hope to see more Aboriginal people pursuing their own business ideas, knowing we’re here to support them if they need.’

Deadly in Gippsland was one of 17 projects across Latrobe City to share in $5 million from our Council Support Package, and is part of a larger initiative by Latrobe City Council to support First Nations businesses.

From sport facility upgrades and participation partnerships, to streetscape upgrades, creation of pedestrian links and public art installations, we’re helping to make Latrobe City an even better place to live, work, stay and play.