We are fully committed to supporting First Nations economic self-determination by ensuring the Indigenous economy is supported and grown by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander professional accountants and advisors. CA ANZ has committed to increasing First Nations participation in the profession through several initiatives, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation in CA ANZ governance ecosystem, partnerships, the provision of scholarships and member support and in supporting programs focused on increasing university enrolments in accounting, management and commerce degrees. 

However, we believe increased government investment in business, accounting and financial literacy skills for First Nations Australians, including supporting business mentoring programs targeted at Indigenous high school students, is necessary to close the participation gap.

This submission advocates for the government’s support for:

1. Increasing the number of First Nations professional advisors, including accountants, available to support the development of Indigenous businesses and the Indigenous economy in Australia. The growth of Indigenous businesses is best served by having Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander professional accountants advising those businesses.

2. Increasing government investment in business, accounting and financial literacy skills for First Nations Australians, including supporting business mentoring programs targeted at Indigenous high school students.