Empowering Indigenous women improves

outcomes for families and communities.

First Nations’ women have long been the backbone of communities, preserving culture, traditions, and wisdom through generations. However, our women often face significant barriers to economic independence and prosperity, including access to education, employment opportunities, and financial resources.

At Community First Development, we have witnessed the power of self-determination and economic empowerment to transform lives and communities. With the tools, skills, and support they need to achieve financial independence, First Nations’ women are building a brighter future for themselves, their families, and future generations.

One inspiring example is Irene Stanley. As the founder of First Class Finish, a painting business, and a social enterprise called Indigenous Women in Trades, she is paving the way for Indigenous women to step into the trades industry with confidence.

Irene is dedicated to creating opportunities for women to gain certifications, hands-on experience, and build thriving careers in trades across Queensland. She is incredibly passionate about empowering First Nations’ women to recognise their strength, capability, and potential.

Will you join us in supporting improved economic outcomes and opportunities for First Nations’ women and their families to thrive?

With a bold vision to expand opportunities for women nationwide. Irene reached out to our Community Development Team to achieve her mission and bring her social enterprise to life.

Skilled Senior Community Development Officer, Alex, and two dedicated volunteers worked with Irene to develop a website, create business and strategic plans, and secure funding for additional training.

Irene shared, “the success of these projects means we will see more women become qualified and skilled employees in many different areas. I’m just so thankful for Alex and proud of what we have been able to achieve…having a different set of eyes going over everything to make sure it’s perfect.”

The construction trades workforce currently only comprises of 3% female workers[1], of which Indigenous women are less likely to be represented.

By offering resources, mentorship, and a supportive community for Aboriginal women exploring trades, Irene is in the early stages of opening doors for women in industries where they’re often underrepresented

Indigenous Women in Trades provides pathways to break down barriers, create a more inclusive and diverse trades industry, and support women to live life on their terms. The long-term outcomes of this are financial stability and improved standards of living.

When you give a gift to Community First Development, the outcomes extend into the future. You are supporting First Nations’ people, communities, and organisations like Indigenous Women in Trades to transform the lives of present and future generations.

We couldn’t do this important work without you!

When asked how she is working to create more opportunities for First Nations women, particularly in trades, Irene responded:

“we hope to create a space where our women feel safe when exploring the possibilities of a trade career, through mentorship and hands-on experience. Being able to have a go at it before any commitment is made and to showcase all the deadly women out there that are tradies in the industry.”

Looking ahead, Irene shared her excitement about future projects:

“there’s a lot happening at the moment, but our goal is to increase representation for our women already in trades and provide more hands-on experience with our try-a-trade programs coming soon. Which is pretty exciting.”

We invite you to join us in supporting worthwhile initiatives like this.

Your generous gift this tax time will create opportunities for First Nations’ women to achieve economic empowerment, reach their potential, and improve quality of life, and support their families and future generations to thrive.

[1] BuildSkills Australia, 2024