First Nations Economics Launches Refreshed Website, Solidifying a Stronger Future 

First Nations Economics, a leading Aboriginal-led charity dedicated to empowering First Nations economic development, is thrilled to announce the launch of its refreshed website, www.firstnationseconomics.com. This significant update solidifies the FNE’s commitment to building a stronger future for First Nations communities through enhanced accessibility and expanded service offerings. 

As an Aboriginal-led organisation, First Nations Economics prioritised collaboration with the Aboriginal business sector, engaging Barragi Mawang, an Aboriginal-owned digital agency, to refresh and modernise its online presence. This partnership emphasises their commitment to supporting and uplifting Aboriginal businesses within the broader economy. 

The new website features a modern and intuitive design, making navigating and accessing key information easier for visitors and community. Key highlights include: 

  • Expanded Social Program Information: In-depth details about First Nations Economics’ impactful social initiatives, including the flagship Leah Armstrong Scholarship Program, which supports First Nations women in pursuing tertiary education, and the Pro-bono Advisory Practice, providing vital support to Aboriginal community-controlled projects. 
  • Improved Accessibility and Contact Features: A streamlined interface and enhanced contact functionality, facilitating direct communication and engagement with the First Nations Economics team. 
  • Comprehensive Professional Services and Capabilities: Detailed information on First Nations Economics’ expertise in economic development, policy analysis, strategic planning, and project management, highlighting their commitment to delivering tailored solutions for First Nations communities and organisations. 

“We are delighted to launch our refreshed website, which reflects our ongoing commitment to providing accessible and transparent information about our work,” said Associate Professor Rick Macourt, Managing Director, Foundation & Strategy.   

“Importantly, we are proud to have partnered with Barragi Mawang, an Aboriginal business, for this project. This collaboration demonstrates our dedication to supporting and growing the Aboriginal business sector. This new platform will significantly enhance our ability to connect with First Nation communities, organisations, and partners, showcasing our expanded services and the impact of our social programs. In the long term, this digital enhancement will allow us to grow our reach and provide more support to First People and organisations to help them achieve their economic goals.”  

The refreshed website highlights First Nations Economics’ dedication to developing sustainable economic development and social equity for First Peoples. By providing a comprehensive overview of their services and initiatives, the organisation aims to strengthen partnerships and drive positive change. 

Visit the new website at www.firstnationseconomics.com to learn more about First Nations Economics and its impactful work.

Gurminder Saro

Interim Chair

Associate Professor Rick Macourt is a proud, queer Gumbaynggirr man, lawyer, and economic specialist. He leads First Nations Economics as Managing Director of Strategy and Foundation and serves as Associate Dean of First Nations Strategy and Services at the University of Sydney.

With over 15 years of experience spanning government, corporate, and not-for-profit sectors, Rick is deeply committed to advancing the economic development of First Peoples. As the former Director of First Nations Expenditure and Outcomes at NSW Treasury, he spearheaded the state’s inaugural Indigenous expenditure reporting processes and established the groundbreaking First Nations budget process in 2021/22. Previously, Rick held an executive role at the Westpac Group, overseeing First Nations affairs, and has a rich history in government, monitoring, evaluation, and negotiation, with senior positions at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, City of Sydney, and Standards Australia.

Rick is a published author with Oxford University Press, a member of the First Nations Advisory Board of Siemens Australia, and a Non-Executive Director on the board of Barnardos Australia.