What Country Can Teach Us About Better Business

Business Built on Country

Despite First Nations businesses contributing more than $16 billion to Australia's economy each year, there are still 13,693 First Nations small businesses navigating significant barriers to growth and long term success. That reality is why these conversations matter. I want to better understand what helps businesses not only survive but thrive, and to uncover the lessons that encourage more mob to back themselves, build with purpose and create opportunities for future generations.

One conversation that has stayed with me was with Tara, the CEO of Yaala Sparkling.

Going into the interview, I thought we'd be talking about sparkling water. Instead, we found ourselves talking about Country, responsibility, entrepreneurship and the importance of creating opportunities that honour the people who came before us while investing in those who will come next.

As a proud Kamilaroi man, I've always understood that Country provides far more than resources. It holds knowledge, culture, identity and connection. Speaking with Tara reminded me that native botanicals are one of the most tangible ways people can experience that connection every day.

Rather than looking overseas for inspiration, Yaala has embraced botanicals that have grown on this continent for thousands of years, plants that have been understood and respected by First Nations peoples for generations. What impressed me most wasn't simply the product. It was the responsibility behind it.

Tara spoke about the importance of sourcing native botanicals from First Nations suppliers wherever possible, recognising that the knowledge of these plants has always belonged to First Nations communities. It's not simply about using native ingredients. It's about ensuring the people who have cared for them for generations are part of the journey and benefit from it.

That commitment also strengthens a circular economy within First Nations communities. Supporting Indigenous growers, harvesters and businesses means the value created by native botanicals flows back into the communities connected to them, creating jobs, supporting Indigenous enterprise and helping preserve cultural knowledge for future generations.

What also resonated with me was Tara's honesty about building a business. She hopes her journey encourages other entrepreneurs to take the leap of faith, trust their vision and have the courage to start, even when the outcome isn't guaranteed.

But she was equally clear that

Finding your people, surrounding yourself with knowledge holders and learning from those who have walked the path before you are essential to building a successful business. Whether those mentors are Elders, industry leaders or fellow entrepreneurs, success is built through relationships, collaboration and a willingness to keep learning. Tara also spoke about the importance of asking for help. Too often we see it as a weakness, but recognising what you don't know and seeking guidance is one of the greatest strengths a business owner can have.

More than anything, I left our conversation thinking about legacy. Mob success isn't measured only by what we build for ourselves, but by what we pass on to the ones who come next. Whether that's knowledge, opportunity, confidence or community, real success creates pathways for others to follow.

That's what I took away from my conversation with Tara. Native botanicals aren't simply unique Australian flavours. They're stories of Country, resilience and culture. When businesses honour those stories, invest in First Nations suppliers and create opportunities for communities to thrive, they're doing far more than building a brand. They're helping build a legacy.