Media release

Top 500 report—case study

Bawinanga Aboriginal Corporation

Bawinanga Aboriginal Corporation (BAC) is the second top ranked Indigenous corporation in Australia for the fourth year running. A not-for-profit organisation, BAC generates most of its income from its business interests (58.41 per cent of its total revenue).

BAC, located in Maningrida in Arnhem Land, represents a diverse group of Aboriginal people united by the common goal of keeping their culture strong and retaining a strong connection with their traditional lands. BAC was established in 1974. Over the years it has developed a large portfolio of services to support 32 outstations in an area covering about 10 000 square kilometres.

BAC is a large regional corporation that turned over $33 million in 2008–09. The corporation has about 120 salaried employees, 60 per cent of whom are Indigenous. It administers more than 40 grants, operates a large Community Development Employment Program (CDEP) and manages a range of businesses, including an arts centre, supermarket and wildlife centre. CDEP employs approximately 600 people in ventures such as a crab harvesting program, garden nursery, women’s centre—as well as providing services to those who live on the homelands.

BAC is managed by an executive committee elected each year by members of the corporation at the annual general meeting. The executive committee determines policy which is then implemented by the corporation under the leadership of the management team.

BAC’s most profitable business is a retail development located in Maningrida. The Tucker Run has grown over the last six years, driven by demand for more retail choice in the town. The business has grown so large that larger premises were required, and an expansion plan is now under way.

The corporation is currently completing eight contractor quarters that will be rented out, generating more housekeeping jobs. They are also building a new art centre and coffee shop.

While BAC continues to focus on economic development and employment opportunities to secure the future of their people, they remain committed to maintaining strong ties with their land and their culture.

For more information about BAC call Len Kiely on (08) 8979 5934.