The IBA Home Loan Calculator is back online and ready to support you take the next step on your home ownership journey.
If you’ve visited our website before, you might remember our old Home Loan Calculator. Now that we have transitioned to our new lending system, we are excited to bring back a new and improved version of the calculator.
The Home Loan Calculator has been refreshed to work alongside our new systems. It’s a self-service tool designed to support you:
This means you can explore your options, see the numbers, and feel more confident before you even speak to one of our team members.
We know that buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make. That’s why we want to make the process as transparent and empowering as possible. The IBA Home Loan Calculator gives you a better picture of what’s possible and helps us have more meaningful conversations with you when you’re ready to move forward.
Ready to give it a go? You can access the Home Loan Calculator right here: IBA Home Loan Calculator - Indigenous Business Australia
Whether you’re just starting to think about home ownership or you’re ready to take the next step, this tool is here to support you.
If you prefer to have a yarn, give us a call on 1800 107 107 option 1, then option 1 again.
NAIDOC Week 2025 arrives at a defining moment for Indigenous economic participation in Australia. As Chair of Indigenous Business Australia, I had the privilege of addressing our staff during this historic week under the theme “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy". This theme is more than symbolic. It captures the essence of the transformation now underway within IBA and across the wider Indigenous economic landscape.
This year marks a turning point in how Australia supports, enables, and partners with Indigenous peoples on their economic journey. Through recent legislative reforms, IBA has been fundamentally repositioned, from a concessional lender to a capital markets participant, from facilitator to active investor. This evolution is neither cosmetic nor administrative; it is structural and generational. We are witnessing the emergence of IBA as an Indigenous economic powerhouse.
The expansion of IBA’s legislative authority in February of this year, was a watershed moment in national economic policy. Parliament’s decision to expand IBA’s powers - empowering it to access capital markets, make direct investments, and deploy specialist financial products -signals a new maturity in Australia’s approach to Indigenous economic inclusion.
IBA is no longer simply a lender of concessional finance. With a $2 billion asset base, it now has the scale, legislative backing, and strategic ambition to play an active role in major national projects, from renewable energy zones and defence infrastructure to agricultural investments and social infrastructure such as housing, facilities for aged and assisted care. This expansion honours IBA’s original legislative purpose:
Australia's broader productivity agenda, seeks to remove friction in high-value chokepoints and create new engines of economic growth. IBA is now structurally equipped to help deliver on that agenda. By enabling Indigenous Australians to shift from stakeholders to shareholders, from hosts of other peoples’ development to co-owners in transformative national initiatives.
The expanded IBA is building an investment architecture that will endure and scale. This means growing our capital base, building internal project finance capability, and creating the governance frameworks that will attract institutional co-investment. It also means forging strategic partnerships with capability partners across Australia’s banking and investment sectors and internationally.
We draw inspiration from international models. The First Nations Finance Authority in Canada has raised over $CAD2.5 billion and achieved investment-grade credit ratings, enabling Indigenous participation in more than half of Canada’s renewable energy projects. In the United States, Alaska Native Corporations generate over $USD10.5 billion in annual revenues. Proof that Indigenous-controlled institutions can be commercially viable while remaining true to cultural priorities.
Indigenous Australia must resume its own version of this model. IBA will build Sector-Specific Investment Platforms in priority areas such as energy, mining, defence, agriculture, and infrastructure. These platforms will allow us to aggregate capital, reduce transaction friction, and create deal-flow that is both Indigenous-led and investment-ready. They will unlock long-standing, unmet infrastructure needs in regional economies and enable Traditional Owners to drive their own development agendas, particularly in remote and regional economies.
Moreover, our international linkages are growing. IBA is strengthening ties with the OECD, the World Bank, and APEC - global institutions that are increasingly recognising Indigenous economic inclusion as an economic priority. These relationships will bring technical expertise, policy frameworks, and professional exchange opportunities that will enhance IBA’s institutional maturity and leadership capacity.
Internally, we are also setting clear expectations for a performance-driven culture. We are investing in staff development, encouraging innovation, and embedding an ethos of excellence. The future of Indigenous investment will be shaped by those who can blend cultural authenticity with financial expertise. Our staff are being asked to step into that space.
For generations, Indigenous Australia has been marginal to the nation’s economic development frameworks. But that era is ending. With the Government’s announcement of a first-ever National Indigenous Economic Framework in last year’s MYEFO, and the links of IBA to Treasury and Finance portfolios, Indigenous participation is now a central feature of national economic planning.
This is not about special pleading. It is about recognising that Indigenous economic inclusion creates better outcomes for everyone. It improves investment certainty, enhances project resilience, and embeds social licence from the outset. When Indigenous participation becomes standard practice - rather than a compliance measure - it ceases to be a side program and becomes embedded business-as-usual.
This is how we move from afterthought to core. And it is why IBA’s future lies in partnerships with Treasury, Finance, and the Reserve Bank of Australia – the principal economic agencies of government. We must think and act as a specialist capital provider, a partner in national productivity, and an engine of Indigenous-led development. In short, we are evolving into an Indigenous development finance institution - rooted in Australian soil but linked to global best practice.
In this moment of transformation, I extend a genuine invitation: whether you're an IBA staff member, a Traditional Owner, an investment partner, or a policymaker - your contribution matters.
We ask our people to lead with capability, embrace a service-oriented attitude, and measure their performance by tangible outcomes for Indigenous communities. We ask our partners to walk with us in designing capital solutions that align commercial viability with intergenerational wealth creation. And we ask the broader nation to recognise that Indigenous participation is not a cost - it is a catalyst for a better Australia.
The infrastructure is being built. The legal mandate is in place. The economic possibilities for our children are within reach for Indigenous Australia.
Indigenous Business Australia’s (IBA’s) submission to the Treasurer’s Economic Reform Roundtable reveals how the First Nations ‘demographic dividend’ can boost Australia’s productivity by increasing labour force participation and enhancing innovation.
The submission provides data and modelling centred around three drivers of economic prosperity – Population, Participation and Productivity. The submission reveals that when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are included in economic decision-making and have access to critical levers, their contributions can boost Australia’s economic prospects.
IBA Chair, Mr Darren Godwell MHK FAIIA, released the submission stating, “The case couldn’t be stronger for recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as a driver of Australia’s future prosperity.”
“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people could make up between 4-7% of the Australian population in 20 years.
“The proportion of First Nations people within the prime working ages of 20-54 years could increase by 57% over that time.
“First Nations people with a tertiary qualification have not just closed the employment gap, their employment rates are higher than non-Indigenous tertiary qualified people.
“The growth in education could mean First Nations people add over $53 billion extra to the Australian economy over 20 years. And those gains will compound over the next few decades.”
While the First Nations participation rate remained the same between 2016 and 2021, the proportion of working age employed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people increased from 47% to 50%.
“In contrast to the rest of the country, which is rapidly ageing, the youthful First Nations population will provide a growing source of economic vitality. Indeed, the number of First Nations tertiary-qualified graduates in employment could increase to over 87,000 in a decade,” Mr Godwell notes.
“Those workers, entrepreneurs and leaders will provide new energy, and draw on ancient knowledge to create cultural renewal, economic participation and Indigenous-led innovation.
“And with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people having an interest or ownership stake in over 50% of Australia’s landmass – over 80% in the north – First Nations people must have a seat at the economic table.”
FIRST NATIONS TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE: AN INNOVATION REVOLUTION
The submission reveals how the greatest benefits for Australia will come from First Nations people using traditional knowledge, systems and frameworks to drive the next stage of Australian innovation.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander traditional knowledge provides place-based insights about how to live in partnership with Country, to ensure it continues to provide – not just for this generation – but for at least seven generations ahead.
“Ancient First Nations frameworks for thinking about the world offer new ways for non-First Nations people to consider our activities, particularly through a sustainability lens that focuses on the role of maintaining and Caring for Country,” said Mr Godwell.
REFORMS ARE NEEDED
IBA’s submission calls for three policy reforms that can shape the direction of Australia’s productivity and sustainability story in a manner that is consistent with the task as put by the Treasurer:
Mr Godwell said, “First Nations leaders and their responsibilities as Lore Men and Lore Women are in the best position to determine how to successfully unlock greater productivity potential within the Indigenous estate.
“But that requires greater respect to be accorded to them, their position and their knowledge. Only through their guidance can we find ways forward to shape the nature and terms of economic activity on Country.
“Doing so would promote investment certainty, boost economic investment decisions, reduce the time drag on development pipelines, reduce development friction, and advance the national interest.”
HOW IBA WILL HELP
Every year, IBA is supplying hundreds of millions of dollars to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to meet their aspirations and contribute to the Australian economy.
“IBA has a proud history of providing inclusive, equitable, and fair access to capital and finance.”
Mr Godwell noted the latest 2024-25 performance was pleasing. “I’m glad to say that IBA supplied $291.6 million to 583 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families to get into home ownership. That’s over 1,300 more First Nations people in a home that provides greater safety, security and builds intergenerational wealth.
“Over the last 50 years, IBA’s home ownership program has supported over 22,000 First Nations families buy their own home.
“IBA also issued $77.2 million in finance to 172 Indigenous businesses who are invigorating the Australian economy through their innovative ideas and creating employment, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. In addition, 185 Indigenous entrepreneurs received business support to build their capability and 866 budding businesspeople attended our business workshops.
“The number of Indigenous business owners reached an estimated 29,200 in 2021. IBA is proud of its legacy of supporting over half the growth in the Indigenous business sector over the last few years.”
The Government successfully passed IBA’s new legislative powers in late 2024, allowing IBA to secure more capital, boosting more First Nations communities through our supported finance model.
Mr Godwell said, “We welcomed the historic amendments to IBA’s enabling legislation – the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act. The change enhances our ability to leverage capital and support more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander in realising their dreams and aspirations. By scaling up capabilities and investments, IBA will be ready to meet rising demand and drive lasting economic progress.
“It’s an exciting time to be in the business of First Nations economic development. IBA is at the right place at the right time to make a real difference.”
Media contact: Tara Toohill 0427 011 938 or tara.toohill@iba.gov.au
As NAIDOC Week 2025 marked its 50th anniversary, IBA proudly stood alongside communities across the country to celebrate the enduring culture, strength, and leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. This year’s theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,” honours the wisdom of Elders while spotlighting the empowering voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth. From storytelling and cultural performances to live music and ceremony, events nationwide fostered pride, unity, and connection uplifting the next generation and showcasing their leadership.
Highlights of the week included:
While NAIDOC Week has wrapped, the celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, resilience, and leadership continues every day. IBA is proud to walk alongside First Nations people, our customers, stakeholders, and the Galambany network.
Always was, always will be.
“Through the Generations” One Legacy. Many Futures. Your stories. Our history. 50 years through the Generations.
Through the generations, we’ve had the privilege of supporting First Nations families and communities in supporting their dreams. From parents and individuals building a foundation of home ownership, to entrepreneurs growing businesses that thrive, each step forward has been driven by the determination and vision of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Together, we’ve turned aspirations into legacies that continue to inspire future generations.
To share IBA’s 50-year milestone we thought it was the perfect time to share this with all of you. Our theme is Through the Generations which represents generational excellence, success and impact of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.
The animation video is not only a representation of IBA, who we are, what we do and the impact but to tell a story. Story and storytelling are fundamental within our community it is a powerful exchange of connection. Stories carry deep wisdom, history, identity and spiritual significance. The animation draws on oral storytelling with the use of a voiceover done by Malinda director of Blkfsch to encompass our history and ways of knowing and being.
The video symbolises different parts of culture with two main focal points of the animation video to demonstrate that. Matriarchs are the backbone of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. They are at the centre of everything we do with their influence extending to raising families and communities, healers, keepers of culture and knowledge and storytellers. They reflect where we came from and encourage us to go beyond. That is why it was essential to have an Aunty as the focal point of the video.
Another focal point of the video is the Grandmother tree, which holds deep spiritual and cultural significance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. They are often known and serve as gathering places for learning, teaching and connection to land, representing the link between past, present and future generations. Trees have different meanings depending on the Country you are living on, but Grandmother trees are symbol of strength, resilience and connection.
For thousands of years Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, lore and stories have been communicated and shared through oral storytelling. It is an important foundation to how we learn and connect with each other.
Share this journey with us and hear the story of IBA and the amazing milestones of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities in the 50 years of IBA.
Watch the video here: Reflecting on 50 years "Through the Generations"
Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) partnered with Empower Digital to launch a new Digital Catalyst Program. The bold initiative is designed to equip Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service-based businesses with the digital tools, confidence, and support to thrive in today’s online economy.
This hands-on program offers a unique blend of business planning, AI training, website development, and digital marketing strategy – all delivered in a culturally safe and supportive environment.
The first cohort launches in August 2025 in Toowoomba Queensland, with two more cohorts planned through early 2026 (locations TBD). The 3-phase approach supports businesses in a multi-faceted way by starting with online prep, then in-person training, and ends with online support through workshops and 1-on-1 sessions.
The program is designed to ensure participants are set up for success, with a strong focus on long-term economic empowerment. By building digital capability and fostering innovation, leadership, and self-determination, it equips First Nations businesses with the tools they need to thrive in a competitive and evolving marketplace.
IBA’s recent Pathways Through Business report illustrates the incredible growth in the First Nations sector over the last decade. Deputy CEO Sean Armistead adds that it’s programs like the Digital Catalyst Program that will continue to support this trend.
“With the right digital tools, the impact that First Nations businesses contribute will only grow. The Digital Catalyst Program is focused on building the skills and confidence First Nations business owners need to grow sustainably and compete in a digital world,” says Sean.
“Digital capability is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. When we invest in these skills, we are investing in the future of our communities.
“IBA is proud to support a program that empowers First Nations businesses to lead, innovate, and thrive on their own terms. It creates a ripple effect of opportunity, resilience, and self-determination.”
According to the Digital Catalyst Program by Empower Digital, “46% of Google searches in Australia are for local business information.” This highlights the importance of having a strong online presence, especially for First Nations businesses aiming to grow and develop in this space."
Co-founders of Empower Digital as well as a husband/wife duo, Adam and Carmel Wooding, note that with 46% of Google searches in Australia focused on local business information, having a strong online presence is essential.
"Digital capability in today’s world is no longer optional – it’s a gateway to growth, opportunity and self-determination,” said co-founders of Empower Digital.
“We’re so excited to partner with IBA and for the opportunity to walk alongside First Nations businesses as they grow stronger online and in their communities. The Digital Catalyst Program empowers participants with the tools, training and support to thrive on their own terms."
Applications now open for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses to become a digital catalyst for their business and community. For more information, visit us at Empower Digital – Digital Catalyst Program.
Media contact: Tara Toohill, 0427 011 938 or tara.toohill@iba.gov.au
IBA will be around the country for NAIDOC – we love this time of year! It’s all about honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices, culture, and resilience – which happens not just this week but every week.
The 2025 NAIDOC theme is The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy. And IBA is not the only one recognising 50 years in 2025 – NAIDOC Week marks a 50th powerful milestone as well.
Come see us or find other events on the NAIDOC website!
Brisbane / Turrbal & Yuggera Country
Cairns / Gimuy Walubara Yidinji Country
Melbourne / Wurundjeri Country
Sydney / Gadigal Country
Wagga Wagga / Wiradyuri Country
Townsville / Bindal & Wulgurukaba Country
Perth / Whadjuk Noongar Country
And more locations to be confirmed!
As IBA proudly recognises its 50th anniversary this year, another significant milestone stands alongside it, the 25th anniversary of Bawrunga Aboriginal Medical Service (BAMS). These shared anniversaries are more than numbers; they are a reflection of generations of resilience, partnership, and unwavering dedication to uplifting First Nations communities.
As one of the original founders, Weilwan woman Leavina Reid helped establish BAMS in 1999 to reduce the barriers Indigenous communities faced in accessing culturally appropriate GP clinic services. Leavina herself experienced firsthand the difficulty of accessing healthcare for her and her then 3-year-old daughter when they needed medical treatment.
At the local practice in the Nambucca Valley, the doctor asked Leavina, “Who do you want to be bulk billed, yourself or your daughter? I can only bulk bill one.” Without hesitation, she chose her child. She went without care that day, but the experience left her feeling humiliated and deeply hurt.
Mother’s love sparked a movement
That moment became a turning point. It pushed her to ensure no other Aboriginal person would be made to feel that way again and shamed in the same way. It was a mother’s love that sparked a movement, one that would grow into a legacy of care, dignity, and empowerment for generations to come.
Fast forward 25 years, and BAMS has transformed into one of the largest Aboriginal community-controlled social enterprises in NSW, operating multiple GP primary health clinics. Its journey is marked by groundbreaking achievements, including securing the Commonwealth Government tender in 2011 to build and operate the Coffs Harbour GP Super Clinic which has now been sold to a group of doctors, including a long-serving GP with deep ties to the clinic. This thoughtful transition ensures the clinic’s continued success and sustainability, while honouring the legacy of care established over the past decade.
Reflecting on this milestone, Leavina shares, “Our work is about more than just healthcare; it’s about making a difference in the lives of our people, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and cared for... Our journey is a powerful testament to what can be achieved when we work and move as one.”
Strategic expansion as 2nd chapter
This strategic move allows BAMS to focus on the 2nd chapter of its mission, BAMS Impact. This initiative expands beyond clinical care to address broader social determinants of health, including education, housing, and employment. With a foundation built on 25 years of expertise and deep community engagement, BAMS Impact is set to collaborate with key stakeholders with the aim of solving the various social issues faced by Indigenous communities, improving both clinical and social wellbeing thereby closing the gap in Indigenous health and wellbeing.
One of its first projects involves a partnership with a prominent Sydney law firm to provide pro bono culturally appropriate legal services at BAMS medical centres. Other initiatives in progress include establishing scholarship funds with the Australian Community Foundation and launching Indigenous Community Green Energy Projects to create sustainable job opportunities and strengthen rural infrastructure.
Supporters in progress
From humble beginnings to a thriving network of clinics, BAMS has become a beacon of Indigenous led healthcare innovation. Throughout this journey, IBA has supported them with business support and finance lending.
Deputy CEO, Sean Armistead, says: “Being part of BAMS’ journey has been a privilege. Their incredible growth and unwavering commitment to the health and wellbeing of First Nations communities are a testament to the strength of grassroots initiatives. We are proud to have walked alongside them.”
Throughout BAMS’ journey, many have played instrumental roles in its success. Leavina highlighted Dr. Larry Yee, whose support has been invaluable from the early days of the first Bowraville clinic in 1999 to the successful tender for the Coffs Harbour GP Super Clinic in 2011. His belief in BAMS’ mission and his contributions to its growth have helped shape its evolution.
As BAMS Impact prepares for its new journey, Dr. Yee shares his excitement “The timing is perfect, it’s as if the universe has aligned in our favour. BAMS Impact is poised to lead a transformative revolution in Indigenous healthcare, setting new standards for impact, success, and future potential.”
As IBA celebrates 5 decades of supporting First Nations businesses and communities, BAMS stands as a testament to the extraordinary achievements made possible by grassroots initiatives and strategic partnerships. Its journey from a single clinic to a network of thriving healthcare facilities embodies the power of determination and collaboration in turning aspirations into lasting legacies.
Leavina captures the essence of BAMS' story: “We’ve come so far because we believed in a vision larger than ourselves. And now, with BAMS Impact, we’re taking that vision to a whole new level.”
Rooted in the strength of the past and driven by the purpose of today, together IBA and BAMS are creating a future where every generation is empowered to live well, lead with confidence, and shape their own story.
2025 is a big year for IBA as we continue to celebrate impact, resilience, and community over 50 years. In the latest edition of our e-newsletter, we're excited to launch our latest Impact Report, introduce you to Tim from the IBA team, and share inspiring customer stories:
We also share quick links to our upcoming home and business workshops.
Check out our e-newsletter available online: Recognising Indigenous success through the generations
And don’t forget, you can subscribe via our website and receive it direct to your inbox.
Welcome to “The New Dreaming Podcast”, a powerful platform created to celebrate strength, success, and storytelling among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men.
Born from a partnership between IBA and New Dream Productions, this special series holds space for truth-telling and real conversations that inspire, challenge, and empower. Each episode features First Nations men who are reshaping their futures, sharing journeys of resilience, leadership, and cultural pride in a space that honours their voices.
From stories of overcoming adversity to reflections on identity and purpose, the series invites listeners into conversations that are honest, uplifting, and deeply grounded in lived experience.
It’s a space where voices are heard, stories are honoured, and futures are imagined—together.
From his early days in Bowen dreaming by the shoreline to launching a coffee window beside his sister’s clinic, Josh’s journey is one of creativity, resilience, and purpose. Drawing on his background in Indigenous health and HR, he’s built a business that prioritises staff wellbeing and customer connection, challenging industry norms with professional practices and a family-first culture.
With plans to expand into deli-style offerings and a wine bar, Josh continues to grow his impact while staying true to his artistic roots in music. His story is a testament to trusting your instincts, building with intention, and creating spaces where people feel truly seen.
With no formal business training or entrepreneurial background, Jordan followed his instincts, diving into podcasts, audiobooks, and industry research to carve his own path. Support from IBA played a pivotal role, helping him turn ambition into action with practical guidance and funding.
Jordan speaks candidly about the realities of burnout and the importance of balance, offering hard-earned wisdom for anyone considering a leap into business. His story is a powerful reminder that trusting your gut and taking the first step can lead to a life of purpose and growth.
Raised in Logan as one of nine siblings, James draws strength from his Gunditjmara and Wiradjuri roots, which now shape the heart of his digital marketing business. After years of watching his cultural knowledge benefit others, he launched Barragi Mawang to empower Indigenous businesses with digital tools while staying true to community values.
With support from IBA, James has built a platform that blends business with storytelling—producing documentaries like Yurlu Country and writing about his uncle, the first Indigenous person commissioned in the Australian Army. His journey is a reminder that success doesn’t have to mean speeding up—it can mean slowing down to honour culture, connection, and authenticity.
In this candid episode, Adam explains how starting with social media before moving into e-commerce has helped First Nations businesses grow at the right pace. His story highlights the importance of relationships, especially with support organisations like IBA, and shows how real-world connections are just as vital as digital tools.
With new initiatives like the POS Cafe Shopify app and tailored programs for service-based businesses, Adam and his partner Carmel are creating meaningful change while staying grounded in culture and community.
