31 October, Sydney: First Nations Projects Group (FNPG) and The Australian Sustainable Finance Institute (ASFI) have today announced a partnership to incubate a peak body that will provide support to First Nations groups in developing partnerships with industry and government on major projects where there are shared interests.

FNPG and ASFI will scope and incubate this peak body to support First Nations groups, the finance sector and the renewables and extractive sectors to come together and deliver effective partnerships and commercial agreements based on the principles of self-determination, equity and participation.

Both ASFI and FNPG have unparalleled networks in these various sectors and the partnership forms a strategic foundation to leverage complementary strengths to deliver real and tangible outcomes.

FNPG contributes its expertise in First Nations culture and extensive connections within the ecosystem of First Nations affairs in Australia. This experience includes working closely with First Nations communities, Aboriginal community-controlled organisations (ACCOs), First Nations businesses, government, non-profit and corporates to develop policy and project initiatives that deliver better outcomes for First Nations peoples.

Kristy Graham, CEO ASFI said: “This collaboration marks a significant step towards meaningful participation for First Nations communities in projects on their lands.

This partnership will bring the power of the finance sector alongside the deep knowledge and expertise of First Nations to set a new benchmark for equitable partnerships and co-design.

“From what we’ve learnt from our work, in partnership with FNPG and our First Nations Reference Group, we see real opportunities for an organisation that could provide specialist advice in areas that existing bodies do not cover, such as capital raising, equity positioning for major projects, and specialist negotiations and agreements for First Nations.”

Leah Bennett, Chair FNPG said: “We are excited to begin this project and consult and collaborate with First Nations communities across Australia and global First Nations groups. This body will be positioned to accelerate the opportunity of the Indigenous estate. It will be complimentary to existing services within the First Nations ecosystem and is focused on being community led.”

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Media contact

media@asfi.org.au

About the Australian Sustainable Finance Institute

The Australian Sustainable Finance Institute (ASFI) is committed to realigning the finance sector to create a sustainable and resilient financial system by directing capital to support greater social, environmental and economic outcomes consistent with the Australian Sustainable Finance Roadmap. ASFI’s members include leading banks, insurers, investors and financial services companies.

About First Nations Project Group

First Nations Projects Group is a national First Nations led organisation committed to being a driving force to support the economic, social, cultural and environmental aspiration and interest of first nations people in Australia.