FINALIST: Western Australian Local Government Association Harnessing Social, Environmental and Economic Opportunities for Local Communities from the Renewable Energy Transition Australia is experiencing a once in a generation change with the renewable energy transition. Local Governments are at the coal face, navigating a changing landscape, developer negotiations and community concerns. Local Governments understand the environmental, social and economic benefits the transition could bring- it is an opportunity for new industry, additional jobs, and large-scale investment.
A transformation of this size, however, doesn’ t come without challenges, which range from planning and land use to social licence. With limited guidance on how to navigate the change, Local Governments in regional WA were looking for support. WA Local Government Association worked closely with Local Governments to provide a comprehensive suite of support tools, including planning resources, forums, support groups, a Community Benefits and Engagement Guide and a successful advocacy campaign. The project has proven highly effective, engaging over 50 local governments, State Government representatives, and multiple Ministers to drive the best economic, social, and environmental outcomes for communities.
ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER ENTREPRENEURSHIP sponsored by Indigenous Business Australia
WINNER: City of Cockburn Defence Supplier Yarn: A Cultural Shift in Aboriginal Business Engagement
Winning a defence industry contract can supercharge the fortunes of any business, but Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander enterprises have often faced significant barriers to joining the defence supply chain. The City of Cockburn wanted to level the playing field. Collaborating with Aboriginal business groups, and with the support from partners in the defence industry, in early 2025 the City organised“ Defence Supplier Yarn”. This unique initiative empowered Aboriginal business leaders with the skills, information and defence industry relationships that could help them take advantage of the significant opportunities in the sector. Almost 200 Aboriginal business leaders took part in a culturally tailored, wraparound initiative involving workshops, networking and mentoring, creating a pathway for dozens of Aboriginal businesses to enter this lucrative sector.
FINALIST: WePlenty First Nations Marketplace Circular Economy Procurement Platform Despite government and corporate commitments to Indigenous Procurement Policies and Reconciliation Action Plans, many First Nations businesses face barriers such as lack of visibility, limited access to large supply chains, and complex compliance requirements. WePlenty was created to address the persistent economic exclusion of First Nations businesses from mainstream procurement opportunities.
This initiative exists to directly tackle those challenges by providing a trusted First Nations-led business to business marketplace that connects verified Indigenous suppliers with corporate, government, and SME buyers. WePlenty simplifies procurement, builds capability, and ensures spend is directed into Indigenous businesses, particularly in remote and regional areas. The platform supports circular economic development within First Nations communities by enabling inter-business trade, consolidating demand, and providing data- driven reporting to track social and economic impact.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT EXCELLENCE IN CONSULTING
WINNER: 25eight Next-Level Growth Program: A Cost Effective Solution to Uplift the Local Business Community
Smaller businesses often face lower success rates and greater challenges in changing market conditions. Unlike leaders of larger companies who can access executive coaching programs and wide professional networks, small business owners are often locked out of these critical resources due to cost and time constraints. 25eight is closing this gap through its Next-Level Growth Program: an intensive eight-week journey that transforms business owners into strategic CEOs ready to take their enterprises to the next stage.
The program combines evidence-based diagnostics, MBAaccredited online learning, expert coaching, and mentoring. Most importantly, its impact is measured, proving increased leadership capability, stronger local economies, and sustainable business growth. Working hand in hand with local governments and organisations, 25eight is building resilient, future-ready businesses across communities nationwide.
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