A new local business and cultural hub backed by the Allan Labor Government has opened in Ballarat - supporting Victorian Aboriginal businesses, students and artists to flourish and bringing even more economic opportunities to the region.
Minister for Employment Vicki Ward has announced the official opening of the Wadawurrung Aboriginal Economic Hub. The creation of the hub was led by the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation.
The hub will be a culturally safe space in the centre of Ballarat where Indigenous businesses, entrepreneurs and students can network, collaborate and access professional and cultural resources.
Local Aboriginal artists will also be able to use the space to exhibit and sell their artwork, adding to the vibrant list of Ballarat's renounced destination points, which attract visitors from far and wide.
The hub has been funded through the Labor Government's Yuma Yirramboi (Invest in Tomorrow) Strategy, which includes a $25 million investment into Aboriginal employment and business initiatives.
The strategy is supporting four Aboriginal economic and creative hubs across Victoria including the DUMAWUL Hub in Bendigo created by Traditional Owner group DJAARA, Murran in Geelong led by Ngarrimili, and the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC) Community Economic Hub in Morwell.
The hubs will help Aboriginal communities to focus on connection to culture and Country and will build on the Labor Government's commitment to self-determination and economic inclusion and prosperity.
To find out more about the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation visit wadawurrung.org.au.
As stated by Minister for Employment Vicki Ward
"It's fantastic to see this hub come to life, which has been designed and created by traditional owners to meet the needs of the local Aboriginal businesses, artists, students and communities."
"Ballarat's Wadawurrung Aboriginal Economic Hub will support Aboriginal Victorians to share knowledge and skills, develop greater economic independence and create more economic opportunities that strengthen's Ballarat's prosperity."
As stated by Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison
"This hub will be a major boost for our Aboriginal community, helping support their businesses to grow and succeed long term."
As stated by Member for Eureka Michaela Settle
"This opening is great news for Aboriginal businesses across Ballarat and the region who will have a dedicated space for collaboration and to build skills for their business."
As stated by Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation CEO Matthew Smith
"Wadawurrung is excited to offer a dedicated space for First Nations entrepreneurs. We extend our gratitude to the Victorian Government for their support and investment."
