Yarpa has officially opened its Liverpool hub by hosting a virtual launch to mark the occasion.

The online event was presented by journalist, Karla Grant, and was joined by a number of special guests.

This included the Minister for Indigenous Affairs, the Hon Ken Wyatt, as well as NSW Aboriginal Land Council CEO, James Christian, Yarpa Director, Ricky Walford and two Yarpa members and Indigenous business owners Matthew Atkins and Lisa Roberts.

The virtual launch made it possible for Yarpa members to join in the celebration.

Minister Wyatt said the Yarpa Hub was a key component of the Commonwealth Government’s Indigenous Business Sector Strategy.

“The Hubs are a great example of our government actively supporting the growth of the Indigenous business sector, in response to the increasing demand for Indigenous businesses.”

Yarpa Hub Director Rick Walford said the Hub links industries, corporate entities and government with Indigenous businesses and employees.

“We’ve continued to support buyers to engage Indigenous businesses or jobseekers in their supply chain to allow them to meet their procurement or employment targets.”

“And we’ll continue to deliver essential employment and business support and advice to all Yarpa members,” he said.

NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) CEO James Christian said the Yarpa Hub is central to the third wave of Land Rights in New South Wales.

“The first wave was building our network, the second was securing the return of lands and now the third wave is building economic opportunities for our people.  Yarpa is vital to that because it builds Aboriginal businesses, supports Aboriginal entrepreneurs and jobseekers and connects them to opportunities,” Mr Christian said.

The Yarpa Hub space is located in Liverpool in the heart of the Western Sydney Aerotropolis precinct, and offers a fully hosted and managed business lounge designed to facilitate quality meetings, collaboration and workshops. The hub is a Covid safe office and is accessed by appointment only. To make an appointment email info@yarpa.com.au or phone the Hub Hotline on 1300 017 177