ACCIONA's Robbie Lynch and Mena Chisholm took part in the Aboriginal Business Showcase at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Thursday, 25 June 2026. The event was designed to connect Aboriginal businesses with major project owners, government, and contractors, to build long-term partnerships.

Connecting Aboriginal businesses with industry

The Showcase, organised by ICN Victoria, featured presentations, panel discussions and an exhibitor floor that gave attendees direct access to Aboriginal suppliers and industry leaders. The event focused on embedding Aboriginal participation throughout the entire project lifecycle, from planning and procurement to delivery and operations.

Robbie Lynch, a member of ACCIONA's First Nations Leadership Group, was there to listen and learn. "This event is about creating practical pathways for Aboriginal businesses to participate in major projects," Mr Lynch said. "When we include Aboriginal voices from the start, we build partnerships that are both commercially viable and culturally respectful," he said.

Turning intentions into measurable outcomes

The Showcase attracted a diverse audience, including Aboriginal businesses seeking to expand their networks, project owners and contractors looking for trusted suppliers, and government representatives working to meet social procurement targets. Discussions centred on turning good intentions into tangible opportunities and ensuring that engagement strategies lead to measurable outcomes.

• Aboriginal businesses seeking to expand their networks
• Project owners and contractors looking for trusted suppliers
• Government representatives working to meet social procurement targets

ICN Victoria, a not-for-profit organisation, facilitated the event to strengthen local supply chains and increase Aboriginal participation in Victoria's major projects. By providing a platform for direct connections, the Showcase aimed to make procurement processes more transparent and accessible for Aboriginal enterprises across a range of industries and regions.

Building partnerships beyond 2026

ACCIONA's involvement reflects an industry-wide shift towards partnerships that prioritise cultural understanding alongside commercial outcomes. The conversations and connections established at the Showcase are expected to influence procurement practices and project delivery well beyond 2026.

The event underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between Aboriginal businesses and the infrastructure sector, reinforcing the role of inclusive engagement in building stronger, more resilient communities.