Join us at the Summit Knowledge Forum, where the future of Indigenous engagement and industry innovation come together. This premier event will feature cutting-edge presentations from key industry leaders and government change makers, offering invaluable insights into the evolving landscapes of infrastructure, construction, civil, renewables, manufacturing and mining. Discover how these sectors are driving economic growth and how Indigenous businesses and communities can play a pivotal role in this transformation. The forum will also showcase successful Indigenous enterprises, providing a platform for entrepreneurs to share their stories and highlight their growing contributions to the NSW economy and community.

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Delegates at the Forum will have the unique opportunity to engage with expert panelists in dynamic discussions. These sessions will delve into local and global best practices for Indigenous engagement, exploring innovative strategies that can be applied within your own organisation. Learn about the importance of inclusive supply chains, sustainable change, and the economic impact of robust Indigenous engagement. With NSW positioned for unprecedented growth in industry opportunities, this forum is the perfect place to gain actionable insights and forge meaningful connections that will drive your business forward.

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Fully catered and equipped with a business lounge for networking throughout the day, The Summit Knowledge Forum promises a comprehensive and enriching experience. Whether you are looking to understand emerging trends in AI and automation, strategic planning for future industry developments, or how to position your business for success in key sectors this forum has something for everyone. Don't miss this chance to be part of a transformative event that bridges the gap between Indigenous engagement and industry excellence.

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8:00 AM       Delegate registration opens

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9:00 AM       Official forum opening and welcome

Speaker: Uncle James Wilson Miller - Wonnarua Elder

Speaker: Narelle Anderson - Deputy Chair - NSWICC/Envirobank

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9:15 AM       Cultural performances by Waagan Galga & Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam

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9:35 AM       MC welcome - Uncle Ernie Dingo

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9:40 AM       Ministerial video addresses

The Hon. (Chris) Christopher Minns - Premier of NSW

The Hon. David Robert Harris - Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty

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9:50 AM       Keynote address 

Speaker: Gael Duff - Transurban

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10:00 AM     Presentation - 'Leadership in policy implementation'

Speaker: James O'Keefe - DPHI

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​This session will capture the importance of the DPHI authorising environment that enabled the team to deliver on a statewide policy through a DPHI Departmental perspective through our new Aboriginal Participation Strategy. James will outline the 3 stage approach applied through this work, designed to embed executive leadership accountability and support, create sustainable approaches and increase procurement contracts being awarded to Aboriginal businesses.  It will also highlight the supporting resources and enabling systems for reporting to inform how we are delivering on our intent. DPHI is committed to deliver on thriving communities, public spaces, places and economies across NSW and supporting the delivery of better outcomes with and for Aboriginal peoples, communities and entities (our partners).

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10:20 AM     Morning tea

Take time to network, indulge in some tasty food and coffee, and enjoy the cosy atmosphere of the WINYA Business Lounge. Don’t forget to explore the Indigenous Business Timeline, proudly sponsored by Coates, just outside!

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10:45 AM     Indigenous business showcase 1

Moderator: Duane Keighran - Keighran Legal + Advisory

Speaker: Heath Smith - 10Telco

Speaker: Cherie Johnson - Speaking in Colour

Speaker: Tyson Hubbard - Allpro Plumbing Solutions​

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Join us as Indigenous entrepreneurs from across New South Wales showcase their businesses providing an insight into the capacity, capability, diversity and innovation of the growing Indigenous Business Sector in NSW.

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11:15 AM     Panel Session - ‘Amplifying Indigenous Leadership in Australia’s Energy Transition’

Moderator: Bec Halliday - Gira Advisory

Panellist: Amanda Weston - Alinta Energy

Panellist: Katherine Hawkins - Hydrostor

Panellist: Alison Van Der Linden - EnergyCo

As Australia races toward net-zero emissions by 2050, a significant opportunity emerges for Indigenous communities within the renewable energy sector. The transition to clean energy ignites the opportunity to drive supply chain growth, employment, and wealth creation for Indigenous peoples, while also supporting the preservation of culture, heritage, and connection to Country.
With approximately 1 million jobs expected from this energy transition, 40,000 of these roles are earmarked for Indigenous Australians. This panel will explore how we can foster Indigenous leadership in renewable energy projects and establish sustainable pathways for Indigenous communities - both during construction and across the infrastructure lifecycle. Join us as our panelists share insights on best practices for amplifying Indigenous involvement and creating lasting opportunities in Australia’s renewable energy future.

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11:55 AM     Presentation: ‘ The 5th Industrial Revolution: Control the Impact’

'Managing the disruption of Digitilisation, Diversification and Decarbonisation'

Speaker - Louise McGrath - Australian Industry Group

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Businesses that innovate are more likely to experience growth and longevity. This session will equip our audience with the knowledge to navigate current and future changes, ensuring they are well-prepared and strategically planned for what's to come. Topics covered will include:

• AI and Automation: Discover how artificial intelligence and robotics are transforming industries and creating new opportunities for innovation.

• Future Trends: Stay ahead of the curve with insights into emerging trends that will shape the business landscape.

• Strategic Planning: Learn how to develop and implement plans that embrace innovation and technology to drive growth and competitiveness.

• Adaptation and Resilience: Explore strategies for adapting to rapid technological advancements and ensuring your business remains resilient in the face of change.

Join us for this forward-thinking session and gain the tools and insights needed to position your business for success in an increasingly digital and automated world.​

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​12:15 PM    Key note presentation - 'Black Cladding - lifting the lid'

'Is it a moral or legal risk?

Speaker: Gningala Yarran-Mark

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This presentation will provide insight into the practice of Black Cladding and the risk of engagement for procurement professionals buying goods and services for governments and the private sector.
Black Cladding has become a major concern for Indigenous owned businesses and stakeholders who seek to create opportunities through social procurement policies such as the NSW Governments Aboriginal Procurement Policy (APP) and the Federal Governments Indigenous Procurement Policy (IPP) and through Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) targets.

This session will better equip buyers to mitigate the risk of getting it wrong by raising their awareness of the practice and equipping them with information on where to identify legitimate Indigenous suppliers.
Gningala Yarran-Mark has extensive legal, director, change management and cultural intelligent experience. She has 15 years’ experience driving the agenda for tier one companies to increase their dollar spend with Indigenous businesses. Gningala is currently studying a PhD, undertaking research in the field of social procurement and Black Cladding.

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12:35 PM    Networking lunch

Take time to network, indulge in some tasty food and coffee, and enjoy the cosy atmosphere of the WINYA Business Lounge. Don’t forget to explore the Indigenous Business Timeline, proudly sponsored by Coates, just outside!

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1:35 PM      Lucky Door Prize Drawn 

Sponsored by WINYA Indigenous Furniture.

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1:40 PM      Presentations: ‘Government and Industry Opportunity Roadmap’

Session MC/Speaker: Dr. Shivendra Kumar - Shivendra & Co
Speaker: Stephen Galilee - NSW Minerals Council

Speaker: Tim Stevenson - EnergyCo​

Speaker: Craig Jenkins - Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

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An exclusive chance to hear top government and Industry leaders discuss upcoming project and supply opportunities across NSW and how businesses can prepare to seize them. This session will cover key sectors such as infrastructure and construction, mining and renewables, and government spend on goods and services.

Gain insights into:

- Emerging opportunities in major industries

- Strategies for positioning your business for success

- Key trends and future developments in procurement

Don't miss this must-attend session designed to equip suppliers with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in these dynamic sectors.​

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2:20 PM      Presentation: 'The Rise of Indigenous Design' 

'Bridging Cultural Heritage and Modern Architecture'

Speaker: Craig Kerslake - Nguluway DesignInc

Speaker: Jefa Greenaway - Greenaway Architects

Speaker: Liam Khan - Nguluway DesignInc

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This presentation delves into the transformative movement of Indigenous-led architecture and design, showcasing how these practices reflect deep cultural values, sustainability, and community-centric approaches that are reshaping the industry.

Key topics include:

 - Connecting with Country & Designing with Country

 - Breaking Down the Barriers – The Mysterious Glass Ceiling

 - Elder & Next Generation – The Incubator

 - Blak Hand Collective – Why We Came Together

 - Examples of Blak Design

 

Join us to explore how Indigenous architecture is leading the way toward a more inclusive, culturally enriched, and sustainable future for design in Australia.

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2:40 PM       Empowering community leadership

'Cultural revitalisation, economic growth, and sustainable innovation'​

Speaker: David Wenham - Aurecon

Speaker: Melissa Bolt - Bundjalung Tribal Society

Speaker: Tracey King - Bundjalung Tribal Society

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This presentation explores how Namabunda Farm serves as a beacon of Indigenous leadership and industry collaboration, championing social equality, economic resilience, and cultural preservation in Alstonville, NSW. Discover how the Bundjalung Tribal Society, alongside industry partners, drives sustainable employment, fosters local partnerships, and sets new benchmarks in Indigenous participation and empowerment, creating a transformative community hub that celebrates heritage and builds a legacy of resilience and growth.

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​3:00 PM      Indigenous business showcase 2

Session MC: Uncle Ernie Dingo

Speaker: Jannelle Pitt - Structured Group

Speaker: Monty Noble - Noble Windows & Aluminium Australia 

Speaker: Amy Allerton - Indigico Creative 

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Join us as Indigenous entrepreneurs from across New South Wales showcase their businesses providing an insight into the capacity, capability, diversity and innovation of the growing Indigenous Business Sector in NSW.​​

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3:30 PM     Supply opportunities with Local Government

Speaker: Katherine Lustig - Local Government Procurement

Speaker: John Pennock -  Local Government Procurement 

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This presentation provides an update into the work of Local Government Procurement (LGP) and the NSWICC to open the door to Local Council supplier opportunities. Katherine and John will share some insight into the work already done and the next steps for Indigenous businesses to win work.

                     

​​​3:40 PM       Wrap up and close

Speaker: Uncle Ernie Dingo

Speaker: Monty Noble