Since its inception, Ironbark has evolved into a dynamic organisation, bridging economic and social development through employment, training and enterprise initiatives. 

It now employs more than 100 people throughout the Darwin–Daly region. 

Over the years, Ironbark has expanded its operations significantly, now overseeing multiple for-profit businesses, including Ironbark Services NT, Darwin Precast Products, and RapidClean NT. 

These enterprises not only contribute to the regional economy but also provide meaningful employment opportunities, with 50 percent of the corporation’s workforce being Indigenous. 

Aboriginal Bush Traders café and gallery in Darwin’s city centre is Ironbark’s flagship social enterprise and has long been a hub for Indigenous culture, offering ethically sourced art, bush foods and retail products. 

The recent revamp in early 2025 has elevated the space, enhancing its capacity to showcase First Nations creativity while expanding its café space and menu to highlight native ingredients. 

As part of its commitment to equity and inclusion, Ironbark welcomed Federal Race Discrimination Commissioner Giri Sivaraman and NT Anti-Discrimination Commissioner Jeswynn Yogaratnam to its headquarters on Larrakia Country in April. 

Chief executive Shaun Pearce and key staff shared insights into the organisation’s Positive Duty journey, discussing the intersection of race and the 24 protected attributes, which was praised by both commissioners. 

Applying a Positive Duty lens is helping Ironbark strengthen it’s workplace culture and community connections – it is becoming business as usual. 

Ironbark, which has been led by Mr Pearce for the past 10 years, continues to make strides in business innovation and community impact. 

Mr Pearce’s leadership has been recognised through his nomination for The CEO Magazine’s CEO of the Year award in the not-for-profit category, reflecting his dedication to sustainable growth and Indigenous economic participation. 

Ironbark was also named the overall winner of the Excellence in Business – Not-for-Profit category at the 2024 NT Business Excellence Awards. 

As Ironbark enters its next chapter, the organisation remains committed to strengthening employment pathways, expanding business operations and “changing lives, one story at a time”. 

With a solid foundation built over 25 years, its future looks bright, ensuring continued opportunities for Indigenous Australians across the Northern Territory. 

Happy 25th anniversary, Ironbark Aboriginal Corporation.