Gardening On Country
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A new national, Aboriginal-led organisation—Aboriginal Retail Australia (ARA)—has launched as a dedicated industry body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses in the retail sector, creating new pathways for collaboration with the broader retail industry.
The not-for-profit organisation has been established to advocate for the needs of First Nations retailers, and to strengthen the visibility and sustainability of Aboriginal-owned businesses at a time when the cost-of-living crisis is impacting small business viability across the country.
“We know our culture holds a unique place in this country, and Aboriginal-owned products not only support our cultural expression but also contribute to Australia’s national identity. As more First Nations businesses enter retail, the time is right for an organisation that builds capability and advocates for supply chain opportunities within the mainstream retail sector,” said Elizabeth Liddle, Chairperson of Aboriginal Retail Australia.
While Indigenous businesses are operating across categories including fashion, art, homewares, design, and skincare, many face barriers to market entry and scale. Aboriginal Retail Australia in partnership with the retail sector hopes to change that.
The organisation’s mission is to:
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Laura Thompson, Director of ARA and Co-owner of Clothing The Gaps, said: “Whether it’s a fashion label, skincare brand, art gallery, or community enterprise, Aboriginal Retail Australia exists to support First Nations businesses at all levels—and to make it easier for retailers to engage with us in the right way.”
Aboriginal Retail Australia is actively inviting collaboration with mainstream retailers, online marketplaces, technology providers, and government partners to build commercial opportunities that create win-win partnerships that are both ethical and profitable.
“We’ve seen too many examples of token inclusion and ‘Aboriginal style’ products that aren’t created by our people, which diverts economic benefit away from bona-fide Aboriginal businesses. Our goal is to create win-win opportunities for the retail industry—where authenticity, best practice and profitability go hand-in-hand,” said Elizabeth Liddle.
Aboriginal Retail Australia is now welcoming new First Nations retail members from across the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander retail community. The organisation will also be engaging with the retail sector to co-design initiatives that expand market access, grow consumer trust, and ensure that impactful and authentic Aboriginal products are represented on shelves nationally.
To enquire about partnership opportunities or to become a member, visit www.aboriginalretail.org.au.
Media Contact: Elizabeth Liddle
Phone: 0407352312
Email: aboriginalretailaustralia@gmail.com
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