A wide shot of a crowded convention auditorium filled with delegates seated at round tables during an official AEMEE conference presentation, featuring a main speaker at the podium and large projector screens displaying data insights.

A Legacy of Purpose

Mission-driven, Sector-focused: Our Guiding Principles

Established in 2005, AEMEE's vision and values are more than statements—they form the structural framework that guides how we secure market share, formalise corporate partnerships, and drive institutional advocacy.
Our story Vision & values Board & leadership

Vision, mission & purpose

The Principles That Guide Us

AEMEE's vision, mission and purpose provide the foundation for our work, guiding how we lead, partner and create opportunity for Indigenous enterprise across the resources sector.

A complex circular artwork element displaying an inner four-pointed seed totem framed by a bold, dark sunburst array of radiating vertical bars.
Our vision

Creating true market share and lasting
opportunities for Indigenous businesses in the resources sector.

A traditional First Nations circular design featuring an inner cross-like floral totem motif sheltered by a dark charcoal and ochre patterned outer ring.
Our mission

To strengthen the growth and impact of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses by connecting Indigenous knowledge, education and enterprise. We build partnerships that support business growth, capability development and meaningful economic participation.

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Our purpose

We inspire, connect and lead.

We break barriers, showcase excellence, strengthen networks and create commercial opportunities for Indigenous enterprise across the resources sector.

Our values

How We lead

Four values that define how AEMEE leads, how we partner, and what we uphold across our work with Indigenous businesses, Traditional Owners, industry and government.
AEMEE artwork element featuring a layered circular motif, highlighting that 15% of the network exceeds $10M in turnover.

Cultural respect

We promote Indigenous culture within the business community, ensuring business practices are culturally informed and respectful.
A circular First Nations design motif featuring intricate traditional linework and dot patterns, serving as a support artwork element for the national AEMEE brand rollout.

Empowerment

We create an environment of empowerment, facilitating opportunities to maximise Indigenous outcomes.
A traditional First Nations circular design featuring an inner cross-like floral totem motif sheltered by a dark charcoal and ochre patterned outer ring.

Inclusion

We foster a welcoming and entrepreneurial environment that encourages Indigenous business growth and strengthens communities.
A complex circular artwork element displaying an inner four-pointed seed totem framed by a bold, dark sunburst array of radiating vertical bars.

Collaboration

We enhance networking opportunities to foster business partnerships and strengthen industry ties.

Guiding principles

What We believe

Six beliefs drawn directly from the AEMEE Strategic Plan that guide our decisions, advocacy and commitment to Indigenous enterprise.

1

Meaningful Market Share: Indigenous businesses deserve meaningful market share in the industries shaping Australia's future.

2

Self-Determination: Economic participation is a pathway to self-determination, prosperity and long-term community impact.

3

Indigenous Voices: Indigenous voices must be central in conversations about resources, energy and critical minerals.

4

Traditional Owner Influence: Traditional Owners have the right to influence how land, resources and partnerships are developed.

5

Collaboration & Trust: Opportunity grows when business, community, industry and government collaborate with respect and trust.

6

Culturally Grounded Approaches: Culturally grounded approaches to resource development strengthen Indigenous community wellbeing.

AEMEE Chief Executive Officer Jyi Lawton delivering a keynote address alongside a community leader at a national resources and advocacy forum on Larrakia Country.
A group of five AEMEE network members, including Chief Executive Jyi Lawton and a prominent community Elder, standing together at a national conference gathering.

Ready to be part of it?

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Resources Network

Connect with Indigenous businesses, Traditional Owner enterprises, industry leaders and partners helping shape the future of Australia's resources sector.

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