Djarindjin Aboriginal Corporation taking to the skies

Operating a world class helicopter refuelling service in remote Western Australia, the Djarindjin Aboriginal Corporation have shown that the sky is the limit when it comes to creating innovative Indigenous businesses in remote Australia.

An Indigenous business success story, the Djarindjin Aboriginal Corporation recently achieved 100 per cent ownership of the Djarindjin Airport, guaranteeing jobs and flow-on economic opportunities for local communities for generations to come.

The airport is an important link for natural gas projects in the Browse Basin and provides work for around 20 local workers. Training and support provided to employees will also ensure that new skills and knowledge stay in the community

Built in 2011, the airport is primarily used for refuelling helicopters which carry supplies to offshore oil and gas rigs. The airport currently services two to three helicopters a day but is soon expected to handle more than a dozen due to the commission of major projects in the area.

The project commenced in 2010 as a partnership with Broome International Airport to service the offshore liquefied natural gas projects in the Browse Basin. The airport also serves as an important asset to all surrounding communities by facilitating passenger transfers of The Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Senator the Hon Nigel Scullion, joined Senator Pat Dodson in Djarindjin in April to congratulate the Djarindjin Aboriginal Corporation on their success.

'Djarindjin’s success is an example of Indigenous corporations operating successfully and profitably in today’s economy, and building on a renewed culture of entrepreneurialism in Indigenous communities,' Minister Scullion said.