First Nations delegation shines at World Expo in Osaka
First Nations Victorians showcased their strengths and talents at the World Expo 2025 in Japan.
The delegates attended the Expo during August to bring their knowledge and products to an international audience.
We were proud to run an immersion program to support First Nations Victorians to attend the Expo during Te Aratini Indigenous Peoples Week. Te Aratini showcases Indigenous cultures, perspectives and contributions to international relationships.
Ten representatives from 6 Aboriginal businesses and Traditional Owner Corporations took part. They are active in the agri-food and tourism sectors, and include:
- Bidja Wines
- Blak Brews
- Jala Jala Treats
- Budji Bim Cultural Landscape Tours (Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation)
- Wadawurrung Enterprises (Wadawurrung Traditional Owner Aboriginal Corporation)
- Dalki Garringa (Barengi Gadjin Land Council Aboriginal Corporation)
The delegates say they found the program valuable and successful.
“The program was one of the best we have been involved with as we gained deep market insight and key connections to take our next steps in exporting our wines to Japan,” says one.
“I strongly believe the program was highly valuable in showcasing Victorian First Nations businesses globally. Continued investment in similar initiatives will amplify cultural and economic benefits for communities and industry,” says another.
A third organisation says:
“The immersion program was a huge success. We are excited by the opportunities that are ahead for us. I think it opened our eyes to just how big the opportunity can be, and that it is achievable.”
Highlights included a showcase of Indigenous products and services. The delegates participated in panel discussions, networking opportunities and cultural exchange. Three of the organisations attended a masterclass with distributors from Japan and Korea.
We were also proud to host the Victorian Entrepreneurship Panel in the Expo’s Australian Pavilion. Blak Brews, Budji Bim Cultural Landscape Tours and Wadawurrung Enterprises were panellists.
The delegates participation in the Expo helped to boost Australia’s global profile and economic growth. We now look forward to the World Indigenous Business Forum in Melbourne this October.
Find out more about how we support a self-determined approach to meeting Aboriginal Victorians' economic goals in the Yuma Yirramboi Strategy.
