Building the Northern Territory’s Future: Indigenous Leadership and Economic Self-Determination
Tracks
Trinity Room
| Wednesday, July 23, 2025 |
| 11:00 AM - 11:20 AM |
| Trinity Room |
Overview
Lauren Motlop and Deirdre O'Sullivan, Aboriginal Investment NT
Speaker
Lauren Motlop
Engagement Manager
Aboriginal Investment NT
Building the Northern Territory’s Future: Indigenous Leadership and Economic Self-Determination
Presentation Overview
The Northern Territory’s economic future is deeply tied to the leadership, innovation, and self-determination of its Indigenous communities. As custodians of vast lands and resources, Aboriginal leaders are driving economic development that aligns with cultural values while creating long-term opportunities for their people.
Aboriginal Investment NT is committed to supporting Indigenous-led economic growth by strengthening governance, unlocking investment opportunities, and ensuring Aboriginal voices shape the future of the NT. This session will explore how Indigenous leadership is redefining ‘nation building’—fostering economic independence, strengthening decision-making structures, and creating new pathways for sustainable development.
We will examine the challenges and opportunities that come with Indigenous economic development, including access to capital, governance structures, and workforce participation. Through real-world examples, we will highlight how Aboriginal leadership is driving change, securing better outcomes for communities, and influencing the broader economic landscape of the NT.
The Territory’s future success depends on strong Indigenous governance and meaningful partnerships with government and industry. This session will highlight the importance of collaboration, investment, and policies that empower Aboriginal communities to lead economic development on their own terms.
Join us to explore why investing in Indigenous leadership is not just about social progress—it is critical to the NT’s economic future.
Aboriginal Investment NT is committed to supporting Indigenous-led economic growth by strengthening governance, unlocking investment opportunities, and ensuring Aboriginal voices shape the future of the NT. This session will explore how Indigenous leadership is redefining ‘nation building’—fostering economic independence, strengthening decision-making structures, and creating new pathways for sustainable development.
We will examine the challenges and opportunities that come with Indigenous economic development, including access to capital, governance structures, and workforce participation. Through real-world examples, we will highlight how Aboriginal leadership is driving change, securing better outcomes for communities, and influencing the broader economic landscape of the NT.
The Territory’s future success depends on strong Indigenous governance and meaningful partnerships with government and industry. This session will highlight the importance of collaboration, investment, and policies that empower Aboriginal communities to lead economic development on their own terms.
Join us to explore why investing in Indigenous leadership is not just about social progress—it is critical to the NT’s economic future.
Biography
Biography not provided
Deirdre O’Sullivan
Chief Operating Officer
Aboriginal Investment NT
Building the Northern Territory’s Future: Indigenous Leadership and Economic Self-Determination
Presentation Overview
The Northern Territory’s economic future is deeply tied to the leadership, innovation, and self-determination of its Indigenous communities. As custodians of vast lands and resources, Aboriginal leaders are driving economic development that aligns with cultural values while creating long-term opportunities for their people.
Aboriginal Investment NT is committed to supporting Indigenous-led economic growth by strengthening governance, unlocking investment opportunities, and ensuring Aboriginal voices shape the future of the NT. This session will explore how Indigenous leadership is redefining ‘nation building’—fostering economic independence, strengthening decision-making structures, and creating new pathways for sustainable development.
We will examine the challenges and opportunities that come with Indigenous economic development, including access to capital, governance structures, and workforce participation. Through real-world examples, we will highlight how Aboriginal leadership is driving change, securing better outcomes for communities, and influencing the broader economic landscape of the NT.
The Territory’s future success depends on strong Indigenous governance and meaningful partnerships with government and industry. This session will highlight the importance of collaboration, investment, and policies that empower Aboriginal communities to lead economic development on their own terms.
Join us to explore why investing in Indigenous leadership is not just about social progress—it is critical to the NT’s economic future.
Aboriginal Investment NT is committed to supporting Indigenous-led economic growth by strengthening governance, unlocking investment opportunities, and ensuring Aboriginal voices shape the future of the NT. This session will explore how Indigenous leadership is redefining ‘nation building’—fostering economic independence, strengthening decision-making structures, and creating new pathways for sustainable development.
We will examine the challenges and opportunities that come with Indigenous economic development, including access to capital, governance structures, and workforce participation. Through real-world examples, we will highlight how Aboriginal leadership is driving change, securing better outcomes for communities, and influencing the broader economic landscape of the NT.
The Territory’s future success depends on strong Indigenous governance and meaningful partnerships with government and industry. This session will highlight the importance of collaboration, investment, and policies that empower Aboriginal communities to lead economic development on their own terms.
Join us to explore why investing in Indigenous leadership is not just about social progress—it is critical to the NT’s economic future.
Biography
Deirdre O'Sullivan is a strategic leader committed to economic empowerment and sustainable development in Indigenous communities. As Chief Operating Officer at Aboriginal Investment NT, she drives investment initiatives that support long-term growth.
A Chartered Accountant with expertise in financial management and forecasting, Deirdre ensures strong governance and accountability. Previously, she contributed to Regional Development Australia NT, championing economic inclusion. Her collaborative leadership fosters partnerships that align with Indigenous priorities.
Deirdre is dedicated to strengthening Aboriginal enterprises, enhancing financial resilience, and creating meaningful economic opportunities that support self-determination and prosperity for Indigenous communities.
