About us
The Northern Territory Indigenous Business Network (NTIBN) is the peak body representing Indigenous businesses in the Territory.
We support current and emerging Indigenous businesses by offering organisational development, industry-based development, business support, promotional and collaboration opportunities.
Our Vision
A vibrant, innovative and active Aboriginal business sector in the Northern Territory
Our Mission
To increase the economic participation and social prosperity of Indigenous Australians by encouraging, supporting, empowering and building the capacity of Indigenous businesses.
We are unapologetically prioritising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and country in all that we do.
Our Approach
We prioritise and preference Indigenous values, culture, self-determination, empowerment, equity and economic development, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people for employment and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander enterprises and organisations for our supply chain.
Meet The Team
Board Members
Business: Founder and Owner - Kings Narrative
Tyson Carmody, a community leader, proud Arrernte man, father, and the founder and managing director of Kings Narrative, is a passionate advocate for Aboriginal men and youth.
With more than a decade of experience, Tyson is dedicated to empowering young Aboriginal men to recognize their potential by reconnecting them with cultural knowledge, building their self-confidence, and strengthening their sense of identity.
His work actively challenges negative stereotypes and strives to reshape the narrative surrounding Aboriginal men. Tyson's vision is to create a social enterprise led by Aboriginal people, offering culturally safe and empowering counselling and coaching programs, delivered on country using Narrative Approaches.
Business: Managing Director, DICE
Raymond Pratt is a visionary leader and the driving force behind DICE, where he has built a reputation for excellence in business. His success stems from his ability to foster lasting relationships within both the business sector and the broader community.
Raised in Darwin, Raymond has a deep understanding of the unique challenges in Northern Australia, from extreme weather conditions to the socio-economic dynamics of the Northern Territory.
Committed to empowering Indigenous communities, his business prioritizes Indigenous employment, maintaining a workforce reflective of the local population.
Raymond’s efforts to uplift other Indigenous-owned businesses and promote sustainable economic growth have made him a respected figure in the business community.
Steven is an Aboriginal man from the Pilbara of Western Australia. Born and educated
in the Pilbara town of Port Hedland.
With Pilbara Aboriginal heritage, this Steven brings a deep understanding of the mining industry and the impact of government policies on Aboriginal communities. Graduating from the University of Western Australia with a Bachelor of Laws, he practiced law for over a decade before transitioning into the business sector.
Now the owner and Managing Director of Aboriginal Enterprises Australia Pty Ltd, Steven is recognised for their excellent communication and strong organisational skills, honed over years of experience. His leadership reflects a commitment to advocating for Aboriginal businesses and communities.
Business: Founder and Owner - Kungkas Can Cook
Born and raised in Darwin, Rayleen Brown’s journey is one of resilience, hard work, and deep cultural connection.
Traveling throughout the Northern Territory with her family, she gained invaluable experiences that shaped her passion for food and community. Inspired by the legacy of the Putupi walk-in and land rights movement, Rayleen co-founded Kungkas Can Cook after catering for a significant event involving 100 Warlpiri women.
Since then, the business has flourished, diversifying into tourism and bush food products that highlight the rich, authentic flavors of the desert. A champion of wild harvest bush tucker, Rayleen works closely with women gatherers, ensuring their skills and traditional knowledge are recognized and respected.
Her advocacy extends to written contributions and appearances in global media, including BBC's Great Rail Journeys of the World, where she promotes the growth of bush foods and the preservation of ecological knowledge rights.
Business: Director – Pinnacle Plumbing NT
Born and raised in Darwin, brings over 15 years of experience in the NT plumbing industry. As a director of Pinnacle Plumbing, he is dedicated to delivering high-quality service and timely, budget-conscious projects. A proud Indigenous man with roots in Alice Springs, Elliot, and Borroloola, Stephen is committed to driving positive change across the Northern Territory. He holds multiple trade qualifications, including an Advanced Tradesman’s License and various industry certifications.
Business: Owner/Founder - SC Fitness
Stephen Cardona has been actively engaged in supporting the growth and success of First Nations businesses across the Northern Territory.
Through his collaboration with NTIBN, Stephen is passionate about mentoring and empowering First Nations entrepreneurs, helping them unlock their full potential in business.
Business: Managing Director – Penangke Cultural Consultants
Raymond Walters Penangke is an Anmatyerre man from Alice Springs, with over 40 years of experience living and working across both remote and urban Aboriginal communities. Holding a Graduate Diploma in Public Health and Diplomas in Community Service Management and Community Welfare, Raymond has a broad background in public service.
His career spans roles within the Northern Territory and Victorian Governments, as well as the non-government sector, where he has contributed to areas such as child protection, health, disability, sport and recreation, family support, youth justice, and business services.
He has also worked in management and advisory positions related to foster and kinship care, as well as the Chief Minister’s Local Decision-Making policy. Raymond's diverse expertise highlights his dedication to enhancing services and opportunities for Aboriginal communities.
Business: Principal Consultant – SaltBlak Consultancy
Naomi is an Erubam Le and Gumeroi woman, born, raised, and educated in Darwin on Larrakia Country. She is a mum of four daughters and an Indigenous Business Specialist, running her own consultancy SaltBlak, and is currently the Big Boss at NTIBN.
Naomi is an Indigenous economic development thought leader and unapologetic changemaker, with executive experience across a range of industries including education and training, defence and construction, and Indigenous Affairs.
Her passion for supporting Territory Aboriginal Business is driven by her belief that it will be through business and strong, self-determined generation of wealth, that we will Close the Gap.
Naomi is a big picture thinker and innovator. One of her key strengths is an ability to bring key stakeholders together and a capacity to obtain support for change and innovation through direct and no-nonsense leadership. Her career experience demonstrates a history of achievement of outcomes and social impact through her ‘blak corporate’ approach that places impact over politics.
chairman
Tyson Carmody
Hometown: Alice Springs
Business: Founder and Owner - Kings Narrative
Tyson Carmody, a community leader, proud Arrernte man, father, and the founder and managing director of Kings Narrative, is a passionate advocate for Aboriginal men and youth.
With more than a decade of experience, Tyson is dedicated to empowering young Aboriginal men to recognize their potential by reconnecting them with cultural knowledge, building their self-confidence, and strengthening their sense of identity.
His work actively challenges negative stereotypes and strives to reshape the narrative surrounding Aboriginal men. Tyson's vision is to create a social enterprise led by Aboriginal people, offering culturally safe and empowering counselling and coaching programs, delivered on country using Narrative Approaches.
deputy chair
Raymond Pratt
Hometown: Darwin
Business: Managing Director, DICE
Raymond Pratt is a visionary leader and the driving force behind DICE, where he has built a reputation for excellence in business. His success stems from his ability to foster lasting relationships within both the business sector and the broader community.
Raised in Darwin, Raymond has a deep understanding of the unique challenges in Northern Australia, from extreme weather conditions to the socio-economic dynamics of the Northern Territory.
Committed to empowering Indigenous communities, his business prioritizes Indigenous employment, maintaining a workforce reflective of the local population.
Raymond’s efforts to uplift other Indigenous-owned businesses and promote sustainable economic growth have made him a respected figure in the business community.
treasurer
Steven Dhu
Business: Owner/Managing Director Aboriginal Enterprises Australia
Steven is an Aboriginal man from the Pilbara of Western Australia. Born and educated in the Pilbara town of Port Hedland.
With Pilbara Aboriginal heritage, this Steven brings a deep understanding of the mining industry and the impact of government policies on Aboriginal communities. Graduating from the University of Western Australia with a Bachelor of Laws, he practiced law for over a decade before transitioning into the business sector.
Now the owner and Managing Director of Aboriginal Enterprises Australia Pty Ltd, Steven is recognised for their excellent communication and strong organisational skills, honed over years of experience. His leadership reflects a commitment to advocating for Aboriginal businesses and communities.
secretary
Rayleen Brown
Hometown: Alice Springs
Business: Founder and Owner - Kungkas Can Cook
Born and raised in Darwin, Rayleen Brown’s journey is one of resilience, hard work, and deep cultural connection.
Traveling throughout the Northern Territory with her family, she gained invaluable experiences that shaped her passion for food and community. Inspired by the legacy of the Putupi walk-in and land rights movement, Rayleen co-founded Kungkas Can Cook after catering for a significant event involving 100 Warlpiri women.
Since then, the business has flourished, diversifying into tourism and bush food products that highlight the rich, authentic flavors of the desert. A champion of wild harvest bush tucker, Rayleen works closely with women gatherers, ensuring their skills and traditional knowledge are recognized and respected.
Her advocacy extends to written contributions and appearances in global media, including BBC's Great Rail Journeys of the World, where she promotes the growth of bush foods and the preservation of ecological knowledge rights.
board member
Stephen Cardona
Hometown: Darwin
Business: Owner/Founder - SC Fitness
Born and raised in Darwin, Stephen is of Malak Malak and Torres Strait Islander descend. A local Darwin fitness identity, Stephen has over 30 years’ experience in the fitness industry in personal training, group fitness, bodybuilding, corporate and team sports training. Stephen is also an active role model in the community and is passionate about the improvement of Aboriginal health, fitness and wellbeing making a contribution towards helping to ‘Close the Gap’
Stephen has been actively engaged in supporting the growth and success of First Nations businesses across the Northern Territory.
Through his collaboration with NTIBN, Stephen is passionate about mentoring and empowering First Nations entrepreneurs, helping them unlock their full potential in business.
Board Member
Robbie Rusca
Hometown: Darwin
Business: Managing Director - Rusca Group
Robbie Rusca is a prominent figure within the Rusca Group, contributing significantly to its growth and success. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities in Northern Australia, Robbie has been instrumental in steering the company towards impactful projects and sustainable growth.
His leadership and vision have helped Rusca Group become a well-respected name in the industry, known for its commitment to quality and community engagement. Robbie's dedication to fostering Indigenous employment and supporting local communities underpins his approach, making him a key player in advancing the socio-economic landscape of the region.
public officer
Stephen Stavrinos
Hometown: Darwin
Business: Director – Pinnacle Plumbing NT
Born and raised in Darwin, brings over 15 years of experience in the NT plumbing industry. As a director of Pinnacle Plumbing, he is dedicated to delivering high-quality service and timely, budget-conscious projects. A proud Indigenous man with roots in Alice Springs, Elliot, and Borroloola, Stephen is committed to driving positive change across the Northern Territory. He holds multiple trade qualifications, including an Advanced Tradesman’s License and various industry certifications.
big boss (ceo)
Naomi Anstess
Hometown: Darwin
Business: Principal Consultant – SaltBlak Consultancy
Naomi is an Erubam Le and Gumeroi woman, born, raised, and educated in Darwin on Larrakia Country. She is a mum of four daughters and an Indigenous Business Specialist, running her own consultancy SaltBlak, and is currently the Big Boss at NTIBN.
Naomi is an Indigenous economic development thought leader and unapologetic changemaker, with executive experience across a range of industries including education and training, defence and construction, and Indigenous Affairs.
Her passion for supporting Territory Aboriginal Business is driven by her belief that it will be through business and strong, self-determined generation of wealth, that we will Close the Gap.
Naomi is a big picture thinker and innovator. One of her key strengths is an ability to bring key stakeholders together and a capacity to obtain support for change and innovation through direct and no-nonsense leadership. Her career experience demonstrates a history of achievement of outcomes and social impact through her ‘blak corporate’ approach that places impact over politics.
Meet The Team
Welcome to NTIBN! Our team is dedicated to providing you with the best possible experience.
We're here to answer any questions you may have, and to help you find the perfect way to fulfil your business needs.
The Board of NTIBN
Board Member
Michael Rotumah
<span data-metadata=""><span data-buffer="">Air Conditioning & Electrical Services Pty Ltd (ACES)
The Board of NTIBN
Board Member
Michael Rotumah
<span data-metadata=""><span data-buffer="">Air Conditioning & Electrical Services Pty Ltd (ACES)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 51% or more Aboriginal owned;
That is operating as a business, including companies, incorporated associations, sole traders, partnerships, trusts and social enterprises or registered charities if they are operating as a business;
Can demonstrate that Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander people are involved in the daily operation of the Enterprise and have effective control at least equal to the degree of ownership; and;
Is registered with a Certifying authority.
A Certifying Authority is an Aboriginal Organisation which provides services to confirm the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ownership and control of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Enterprises.
NTIBN is recognised as the peak and preferred certifying authority in the NT.
- Proof of Aboriginality for business owner/majority business owner
- Certified Company Registration
- Company Extract
- Certificate of Incorporation (if relevant)
- Business Name Registration Certificate
- Evidence of majority ownership
- Company Organisation Chart
You must provide Evidence of supply chain commitment or and Aboriginal procurement policy. Plus two or more of the following initiatives:
- Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)
- Aboriginal Engagement Strategy/Charter/Commitment
- Aboriginal employment Policy/Target/Commitment
- An Aboriginal person on the Board of Directors
- An Aboriginal person in a senior leadership position
- Ongoing and regular Aboriginal Cultural Safety Training in place
- A partnership with an Aboriginal business/organisation
- An Aboriginal employment rate above 15%
Supply Nation Certification is recognised by governments, however, Certification through NTIBN provides for a more rigorous and local NT Certification.
NB: Supply Nation Certification is mutually recognised by NTIBN, when the Aboriginal majority owner provides an authentic Certificate of Aboriginality.
No.
Proof of Aboriginality certified by an appropriate and recognised Aboriginal Organisation is required. Refer NTIBN’s Individual Aboriginal Identity Certification and Register process (currently under development).
- Validation of Aboriginality certificate with the certifying body.
- Viewing of shareholding documents.
- ASIC/ORIC checks.
- Referee check with clients.
No. But you do have to pay your membership fee annually.
Deb Anstess-Vallejo
General Manager
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Russell Jeffrey
Hub Operations Manager
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Jessica Wishart
Hub Operations Manager
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Louisa Kaspar
Systems Manager
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Kamahi Djordon King
Indigenous Enterprise Consultant
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Hakon Dyrting
Indigenous Enterprise Consultant
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Tania Kells
Indigenous Enterprise Consultant
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Cherie Reid
Indigenous Enterprise Consultant
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Raelene (Grace) Young
Administration Officer
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Sharna Petherick
Senior Policy Officer
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Rekisha Satour
Indigenous Enterprise Consultant
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Jacinta Berry
Administration Officer
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