First Nations Telegraph

[by Kirilly Mallard]

Karen Iles. Image: supplied

Violet Co Legal & Consulting announced the opening of its application process for First Nation women-owned and led businesses to apply for a program that supports women in employment law, human resources, governance, and strengthening social impact to drive business and community outcomes.

The legal practice recently received a Social Enterprise Grant from Indigenous Business Australia (IBA), with support from the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, which assists economic empowerment programs for First Nations women, girls and sistergirls.

Karen Iles, Principal Solicitor, Violet Co Legal & Consulting, said: “We’re excited to provide legal and strategic support to women-owned and led First Nations businesses to ensure a solid foundation for start-ups and businesses looking for expansion opportunities. Too often, legal and strategic advice does not hit the mark. Businesses owned and led by First Nations women are often different - we need tailored support and legal advice that are cognisant and responsive to trauma, social and community purpose at the heart of First Nations women’s enterprises.

“As an Aboriginal woman of Dharug descent, I know that often Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, girls and sistergirls in business are supported by lawyers who don’t “get it”.

"This initiative is for First Nations women who want to build or expand their business. Employment law, human resources, and governance are vital to any business, and we need to marry this with First Nations values to ensure sustainability and that the woman’s goals and values are met by the business.”

Stella de Cos, Southern Arrernte woman and IBA Director of Community and Customer Experience, said the grant program will drive positive change for First Nations women around the country.

“Women are the strongest pillars of many of our First Nations communities. Empowering them builds opportunities to continue the positive impact and change they drive,” said Stella.

Violet Co Legal & Consulting will offer two programs for start-up and existing businesses.

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● Free for First Nations women and sistergirl entrepreneurs and their businesses to participate

● Two streams for participants – content tailored to the start-up stage and existing businesses  ● Group workshops

● Individual legal advice and representation for selected business

● One-on-one strategy sessions around legal and social impact issues

● Optional camp with Aunty Leanne King Wollombi Cultural Experiences at Wollombi on 10 -12 November 2023

This year’s free program will run from September - November 2023. Depending on the business type, the initiative will be provided via individual legal advice and representation for businesses, yarns and workshops in virtual business communities (both group and individual), online resources, bespoke business packs, human resources support and strategic consulting services.

To register, visit https://www.violetco.com.au/doingbusinessourway. If you have any questions about the program, contact 1300 846 538 / office@violet.com.au