Aboriginal Business Leadership Initiative
Strengthen your leadership. Grow your business.
About ABLI
The Aboriginal Business Leadership Initiative (ABLI) is a free, culturally safe program specifically designed to empower Aboriginal leaders, business owners and emerging entrepreneurs across the Goldfields-Esperance region.
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This initiative 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 support that suits their needs best.​
By Aboriginal people,
for Aboriginal people
Elements of ABLI
Workshops & Training
Focused sessions to strengthen planning, improve financial decision-making, and navigate compliance.
Mentoring
Tailored one-on-one guidance from experienced Aboriginal business leaders.
Counselling
Confidential support to address barriers and personal challenges that impact business growth.
Peer Learning
Opportunities to network and share experiences with other Aboriginal entrepreneurs in the region.​​
​​​Who can apply?
ABLI is a free initiative open to Aboriginal leaders, business owners and emerging entrepreneurs living and working in the Goldfields-Esperance region.​​​​​​​​​​​
​​​​​​​​​​​​​What to expect
The core of the program involves structured training sessions delivered in a culturally safe environment
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3 x 2-day workshops over an 8-week period
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Dedicated 1-on-1 mentoring and counselling sessions throughout the program
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Workshops will be held at a central venue in Kalgoorlie
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Travel support may be available for eligible applicants to ensure everyone can attend​
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A graduation ceremony and dinner will be held for participants and their family members to attend
Program
The program will begin in March 2026, with the graduation ceremony in June 2026.
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Applications are open now and applicants will be notified of the results of their application by the end of February 2026.
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A detailed program timeline is provided below.
Key Program Information
Applications open now!
How to apply
Eligibility
​To apply for the ABLI program, you must be:
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An Aboriginal person.
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A current business owner, an emerging entrepreneur or a leader in community
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Living in the Goldfields-Esperance region (Kalgoorlie, Esperance, and surrounding areas).
Application Process
Online applications are open
Complete the short application form, available using the link below. This form asks about the sector you work in, the challenges you are facing, and any goals you may have.​​​​​​​​​
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January – February 2026
Kaala Barna will visit the region to meet applicants in person. We may contact you for a yarn to discuss your application in more detail.
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February 2026
Successful applicants will be selected based on their commitment to growth and fit for the program's outcomes.
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March - May 2026
The program will commence, including training sessions, mentoring and counselling.
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June 2026
Graduation Ceremony for participants
Need help?
If you need a hand, email us at ABLI@kaalabarna.com.au ​