Some of Australia’s most successful migrant and indigenous business minds have been honoured in the nation’s pre-eminent awards for diversity in business.
The Ethnic Business Awards, now in their 31st year, are Australia’s longest running awards recognising the achievement and contribution of a culturally diverse nation.
In 2016, the ABS found 1 in every 3 small and family businesses in Australia was started by a migrant. In addition, migrant business owners have been estimated to employ more than 1.4 million people across Australia. These are powerful statistics that make intuitive sense: just about every shopping strip and industrial park in Australia contains migrant success stories.
Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs David Coleman said Australia is the most successful multicultural society in the world and our cultural diversity is one of our greatest assets.
“Our economy is strengthened by the skills, knowledge, linguistic capabilities, networks and creativity of our diverse workforce, and tonight’s awards celebrate these achievements,” Coleman said.
“It’s important to recognise and celebrate the success of so many migrants who have come from all around the world to work and make Australia their home.
“Our migration program aims to attract the world’s best and brightest migrants. People who will contribute valuable skills and experience and complement the Australian workforce.”
Holdmark Property Group took out the Henry Ngai Medium to Large Business award, presented by Coleman. Envirobank Recycling and Pine Creek Mango Plantation Pty Ltd won the Indigenous in Business award and Small Business award respectively.
Australia is more prosperous thanks to the valuable contribution of migrants, who have chosen to make this country their home.
