The presentation will explore First Nations Economic Leadership through the lens of Justin Jones, Founder of V&I Homes, a majority First Nations and Veteran-owned business aiming to transform Australia’s housing sector. Through personal experience actively participating in Army Aboriginal Community Assistance Program (AACAP) (partnership between NIAA and Australian Army), Justin identified the need for engagement by private and social enterprises to ensure ongoing support to remote communities. At its core, this session highlights how Indigenous-led development, design and decision-making, combined with innovative manufactured housing technologies, can drive sustainable economic empowerment and reshape industry standards.
The presentation will also highlight challenges of labour market trends for the traditional construction, specifically the comparison of on-shore Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) product and imported MMC. By combining both on-shore and off-shore methods, Justin will emphasise how this approach will assist in meeting the needs of Northern Australia (specifically remote communities). V&I Homes operates with a mission that extends beyond construction. The need to close gaps within the housing standards and fit-for-purpose design for local communities. The needed shift in mindset from on-site construction to buildings as manufactured items – “a product not a project”.

Three key learnings:
• Lessons learned through personal challenges
o Navigating the corporate world (Registrations, grants and bidding ect.)
o Surrounding yourself with the right people (Key decision makers)
o Theory vs Practical (Real world learnings vs teachings)
• Leadership
o Regimental vs Liberal leadership
• Innovation to provide solutions
o Design solutions
o Volume demand
o Service restrictions (trade and labour shortage)