Deadline: 31-Mar-2026

The Australian Government’s Aboriginal and Local Business Participation in Recovery Program supports Aboriginal-owned enterprises to engage in flood recovery and reconstruction efforts in the Kimberley region. Grants of up to $25,000 for services and training and up to $100,000 for equipment help businesses build capacity, resilience, and workforce participation. Eligible applicants receive financial assistance to strengthen operations, acquire essential tools, and contribute to regional recovery goals.

The program aims to increase Aboriginal participation in the workforce and regional economy while supporting flood recovery in the Shire of Derby–West Kimberley and surrounding areas. It provides funding to strengthen Aboriginal-owned businesses and equip them to deliver recovery works effectively.

Program Objectives

• Enhance Aboriginal workforce participation in regional flood recovery

• Strengthen business capabilities of Aboriginal-owned enterprises

• Provide tools, training, and support for delivering recovery projects

• Align business activity with the Kimberley Floods State Recovery and Resilience Plan 2023–2024

• Build resilient businesses capable of long-term growth and contribution to regional development

Types of Support Available

Services and Training Grants

• Maximum funding: $25,000

• Eligible uses include:

  • Business planning and strategy development

  • Training and upskilling of staff

  • Acquisition of software for business operations

  • Promotional and marketing development

Equipment and Asset Grants

• Maximum funding: $100,000

• Eligible purchases include:

  • Tools, light machinery, and essential plant

  • Equipment directly supporting flood recovery activities

  • Business systems improvements

Note: Equipment costing over $2,000 requires additional documentation such as a cost-benefit analysis, asset management plan, insurance, and financial oversight evidence.

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must:

• Be Aboriginal-owned small businesses or sole trading enterprises

• Be registered with a recognised directory

• Operate within eligible local government areas in the Kimberley region

• Hold an active ABN and appropriate insurance

• Meet licensing and qualification requirements for proposed activities

• Demonstrate a track record of providing services in the region

Why It Matters

The program helps Aboriginal enterprises:

• Participate actively in regional recovery and reconstruction

• Build business resilience and operational capacity

• Access resources to expand workforce participation

• Strengthen economic contribution to their communities

• Improve delivery of recovery services and regional infrastructure

How to Apply

1. Confirm Eligibility
   Ensure your business meets Aboriginal ownership, registration, operational, and licensing requirements.

2. Develop a Detailed Proposal
   Include:

   • Business plan outlining management, services, and marketing approach

   • Financial planning and industry considerations

   • For equipment grants over $2,000, provide cost-benefit analysis and asset management plan

3. Submit the Application

   • Applications assessed on a first-come, first-served basis

   • Complete all required fields accurately

   • Declare any conflicts of interest

4. Seek Support if Needed

   • Assistance is available via Morrgul Pty Ltd for application preparation

5. Await Assessment and Funding Decision

   • Successful applicants receive grants aligned with recovery priorities

   • Unsuccessful applicants may reapply before the closing date if reasons for decline are addressed

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Failing to meet Aboriginal ownership or registration requirements

• Submitting incomplete or inaccurate business plans

• Not providing required documentation for equipment purchases over $2,000

• Failing to declare conflicts of interest

• Ignoring application deadlines

FAQ

1. What is the maximum funding available?
Up to $25,000 for services and training, and up to $100,000 for equipment and assets.

2. Who can apply?
Aboriginal-owned businesses or sole traders registered with a recognised directory and operating in eligible Kimberley regions.

3. Can funding cover travel or PPE?
Yes, training-related travel within state guidelines and PPE directly linked to recovery activities are eligible.

4. Is a business plan required?
Yes, detailing management, products/services, marketing, and financial planning.

5. What additional documents are needed for expensive equipment?
Cost-benefit analysis, asset management plan, insurance proof, and financial oversight evidence.

6. Can unsuccessful applicants reapply?
Yes, before the closing date if they address previous feedback.

7. When does the program close?
Applications close on 31 March 2026 or earlier if funding is fully allocated.

Conclusion

The Aboriginal and Local Business Participation in Recovery Program provides crucial financial support to Aboriginal-owned businesses to strengthen operations, increase workforce participation, and contribute to flood recovery in the Kimberley region. With training, mentorship, and equipment grants, the program fosters resilient businesses capable of making lasting community and economic impacts.

For more information, visit Australian Government.