ICN Victoria recently celebrated NAIDOC Week, a time to honour the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
To continue the conversation, we spoke to Nicole Appleton, Director of NLA Trucking. You may have seen Nicole and her team at a recent ICN Victoria industry briefing, where they’re regularly building networks and forming strategic partnerships.
NLA Trucking is the only 100% Aboriginal and female owned plant hire business in Victoria. As a Kinaway certified business, NLA Trucking is a beacon of innovation and commitment to Aboriginal empowerment.
They’re involved in significant projects such as the Epping Road upgrade, the Maidstone Tram Maintenance Facility, and the Keon Parade Level Crossing Removal. These projects demonstrate the company’s ability to handle complex developments that benefit the broader community.
Beyond this, NLA Trucking is deeply committed to supporting Aboriginal businesses and communities. Nicole emphasises that engaging Aboriginal businesses in procurement is crucial for economic empowerment, cultural recognition, and community development.
“Engaging with Aboriginal businesses in procurement is crucial for economic empowerment, cultural
recognition, and community development,” she asserts.
“It supports entrepreneurship, promotes reconciliation, and encourages sustainable practices.”
Aboriginal businesses face significant challenges in the construction industry, including securing funding and navigating complex bidding processes. Building relationships with key stakeholders and balancing cultural priorities with modern construction demands presents unique challenges.
Nicole’s advice for those looking to engage with Aboriginal businesses:
- Learn About Indigenous Cultures: Respect Indigenous values and traditions.
- Build Genuine Relationships: Foster trust through open communication and consistent engagement.
- Tailor Engagement Strategies: Support the growth and development of Indigenous businesses.
- Provide Support and Resources: Offer mentorship, training, and access to networks.
- Seek Input and Feedback: Incorporate Indigenous perspectives into project planning.
- Ensure Fair Procurement Processes: Make procurement processes fair and accessible.
- Commit to Long-Term Partnerships: Demonstrate a commitment to sustainable outcomes.
Reflecting on NAIDOC 2024’s theme, “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud,” Nicole emphasises resilience and pride.
“We must keep the fire burning and rekindle the light within,” she says.
“Continuing to be the Voice for growth & forward change. We get deflated but not defeated, we may fall only to rise again.”
NLA Trucking illustrates how businesses can thrive while championing diversity and fostering meaningful connections within the industry and beyond. By highlighting the potential of Indigenous businesses and communities, NLA Trucking continues to drive progress and champion empowerment.
You can find the NLA Trucking team at many of the ICN Victoria events and industry briefings, actively networking and forming strategic partnerships. Our events facilitate connections with key industry players, keeping NLA Trucking at the forefront of new developments.
Check our events page to stay informed of upcoming events in your region: www.icn.org.au/icn_vic/vic-events/
Learn more about NLA Trucking by visiting www.nlatrucking.com.au.
