A moment of immense pride - and profound responsibility

Award ceremony, Parliament House, Canberra

Last night in Canberra, Munda Wines was named the inaugural First Nations Exporter of the Year at the 63rd annual National Export Awards. It's difficult to overstate what this honour means to us. To stand alongside outstanding First Nations businesses from across the country - innovators, makers, storytellers - was a privilege in itself. To be recognised among them is something we will carry with enormous gratitude and respect.

This award celebrates more than export success. For us, it speaks to the power of connection: to Country, to culture, to our partners around Australia, and to the communities we are reaching internationally through wine. Every bottle we export carries a story - of Country, of craft, of identity, of the many Traditional Owners whose lands shape our wines. Being honoured in this inaugural category reinforces just how important those stories are. And, as Jess mentioned in her speech, we call on all Australia businesses to embrace the opportunity (and some might say obligation!) to embed the richness of Indigenous knowledge and storytelling in every aspect of our work, all across Australia.

We also recognise the responsibility that comes with this moment. Winning this award is not simply receiving a statuette - it is stepping into a role. As ambassadors for this category, we feel a genuine obligation to help elevate and support the next wave of First Nations exporters, and to demonstrate what's possible when culture, creativity and commercial rigour come together with integrity. We want this award to open doors for others, not just celebrate our own journey.

To our fellow finalists: we are proud to stand beside you. The quality, vision and cultural strength you bring to your fields is extraordinary. We learn from you, and we celebrate with you.

Please take a moment to read more about the finalists below; they're an inspiring mob.

Our sincere thanks also to the incredible team at Austrade, especially Mel Harris for her unwavering support, and Senator, the Honourable Malarndirri McCarthy, both for the presentation of the award, and her calm support for Jess during a wobbly moment on stage in front of a very, very big audience!

There is so much more to come. We are honoured to carry this award forward, with the same purpose that guides every step we take.

For the truly devoted, you can watch Jess' very impromptu speech here, or read more on the Export Awards website.

2025 First Nations Exporter finalists

Aldridge Rail Group

East Lidcombe (Dharug), New South Wales

Aldridge Rail Group has been associated with the rail industry and road traffic signals for more than 75 years. The Indigenous manufacturer supplies signals to a global marketplace.

Innovations over the decades include LED rail signals for the Sydney Underground System, the first smart signal in Bangkok, and solar-powered, wireless crossing technology. The company is currently finalising contracts for commuter line and signalling projects in the Philippines and Indonesia.

Its top export markets are Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand.

Visit Aldridge Rail Group website.

Elephant in the Room Consulting

Carindale (Yuggera), Queensland

Elephant in the Room Consulting (EITRC) is a First Nations, female-led consulting firm. The team is committed to helping organisations and entrepreneurs grow with purpose, lead with clarity, and deliver lasting impact.

EITRC specialises in culturally intelligent strategy, leadership development, and business coaching. It designs business and growth strategies for purpose-driven enterprises. It also provides cultural advisory and First Nations engagement expertise.

EITRC recently partnered with a large association in the US. Together, the companies co-designed and delivered culturally informed coaching programs tailored for Indigenous entrepreneurs across North America.

Its top export markets are the US and Canada.

Visit Elephant in the Room Consulting website.

Ikuntji Artists

Haasts Bluff (Mparntwe), Northern Territory

Ikuntji Artists is a leading Aboriginal art centre located in Haasts Bluff. It celebrates vibrant, contemporary art rooted in culture, Country and tradition.

The art centre supports the artistic practice and cultural heritage of the local Luritja people. Its talented artists create paintings, textiles and jewellery, and participate in international collaborations.

Ikuntji Artists curates exhibitions across Australia and internationally. This provides a platform for emerging and established Indigenous artists to share their stories with the world. The art centre also plays a vital role in intergenerational cultural transfer and local economic development.

Its top export markets are the US, Switzerland, Germany, France, the UAE, Vietnam and Singapore.

Visit Ikuntji Artists website.

Jala Jala

Cranbourne West (Bunurong), Victoria

Jala Jala celebrates First Nations culture through food. The First Nations women-owned business creates premium bush food products and handcrafted chocolates. It also offers First Nations food experiences that educate, empower and delight.

The Jala Jala mission is to elevate Indigenous food culture while creating economic opportunities for First Nations communities. The company is commitmed to sourcing through Aboriginal supply chains and honouring traditional knowledge. This ensures Indigenous voices and ownership are at the forefront.

Over the past three years, Jala Jala has scaled production, broadened its customer base and elevated the brand into the national spotlight.

Its top export market is Malaysia.

Visit Jala Jala website.

Kirrikin

Como (Whadjuk), Western Australia

Kirrikin is a luxury fashion and accessories brand that brings contemporary Aboriginal artwork to life. Each piece is a celebration of identity, story and heritage – designed in Australia, worn worldwide.

Kirrikin was founded by Amanda Healy. The proud Wonnarua woman had a vision to create a brand that not only celebrated Aboriginal culture but also empowered Aboriginal communities through meaningful economic participation.

Kirrikin was recently selected to design official uniforms for the Australian Pavilion at World Expo 2025 Osaka. This opportunity significantly increased brand visibility on the world stage and strengthened Kirrikin’s reputation as a leader in authentic First Nations design.

Its top export markets are the UK, the US and Japan.

Visit Kirrikin website.