This simple yet profound idea drives Foundation 2 Future, a groundbreaking initiative that is empowering Aboriginal Territorians to move beyond welfare dependency and into meaningful, sustainable careers. 

The innovative program, created by Saltbush Social Enterprises, an organisation founded by passionate Northern Territory businesswomen, is transforming lives and communities. 

Saltbush, an Aboriginal-controlled and led not-for-profit with a majority Aboriginal board and management team, ensures the program is deeply connected to the communities it serves, building on a foundation of trust and cultural understanding. 

What makes Foundation 2 Future stand out is its holistic approach, which combines education, mentorship, practical training and real employment opportunities. It’s not just about finding jobs: it’s about creating pathways to long-term success — and it’s working. 

Unlike many traditional programs, Foundation 2 Future doesn’t focus solely on training. It offers participants a clear and supported journey from learning to employment. 

They move through a series of modules, which include industry exploration, workplace preparation and hands-on experience in real job settings. This not only builds confidence but also equips participants with the practical skills they need to succeed in the workforce. 

Saltbush’s approach is flexible, culturally responsive, and deeply attuned to the specific needs of Aboriginal Territorians. For many, welfare has become a long-term solution rather than a temporary safety net. This disconnection from the workforce limits personal growth and prevents the Northern Territory from fully using this critical talent pool – a hidden workforce – needed for its economic expansion. 

The program recognises that this hidden workforce needs more than just training and Saltbush addresses this issue by providing a cohesive, well-coordinated program that avoids the fragmentation and duplication that can plague similar initiatives. 

By complementing government efforts rather than competing with them, Saltbush ensures that the services delivered are practical, effective and aligned with the needs of participants and employers. 

The results speak for themselves. Foundation 2 Future aims to support up to 240 Territorians annually across Darwin, Alice Springs, Katherine and Tennant Creek, with plans to expand as success stories grow. 

Employers also benefit from the program’s approach. Saltbush works closely with businesses to ensure participants are ready for the workforce, offering on-the-job mentoring and post-placement support to create a seamless transition. 

This collaborative approach strengthens the connection between training and employment, ensuring both employers and employees succeed. 

MAKE A DIFFERENCE 

Foundation 2 Future isn’t just a program for participants — it’s an invitation for businesses to join a movement that’s creating real change. Saltbush is actively seeking sponsors to support the initiative and help expand its impact across the Northern Territory. 

There are two key ways businesses can get involved: 

1. Strategic support 

This type of sponsorship allows businesses to align their values with impactful social initiatives. It helps organisations meet key corporate goals, including reconciliation action plans, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) frameworks. These alignments not only demonstrate leadership in corporate responsibility but also enhance stakeholder perception and improve tendering opportunities. 

2. Direct participation partnership 

For businesses that want a more hands-on role, this sponsorship option allows for active collaboration with Saltbush to develop tailored training programs and design job-specific modules. By directly engaging with the program, businesses can help build a future-ready workforce while benefiting from access to motivated and job-ready Aboriginal employees. 

Saltbush provides sponsors with data-driven insights and real-time results, ensuring every contribution is transparent and impactful. It’s a win-win opportunity for businesses to drive positive change while gaining meaningful benefits for their organisation. 

BECOME A PARTNER 

While the journey to creating a brighter future for Aboriginal Territorians is well underway, the success of Foundation 2 Future depends on partnerships with businesses and organisations that share its vision. By becoming a sponsor, you’re not just supporting a program — you’re helping to transform lives, strengthen communities, and create a stronger, more inclusive Northern Territory. 

Saltbush is seeking businesses to work with it to break barriers, create opportunities and build a future where everyone has the chance to thrive. 

If you’re ready to make an impact, visit saltbushnt.org/F2F to learn more about sponsorship opportunities and how you can be part of this transformative initiative. 

Henri Peters: from jobseeker to leader 

Henri Peters began his journey with Saltbush as a teenager in the Future Stars course in 2008, eventually building a career in hospitality that took him from kitchenhand to cook across various roles. With support from Saltbush Employment Services, he secured a full-time position at TFE Hotels, where he thrived and is now working as the Indigenous liaison officer for three TFE properties and studying to become an assistant manager. 

Karen Brown: a pathway to the mining industry 

The Newmont Recruitment Day in Alice Springs, organised by the Saltbush Foundation 2 Future program, attracted 150 Aboriginal jobseekers applying for 30 positions. 

Among them was Karen Brown, a long-term participant whose hard work and preparation have set her on the path to becoming a mining dump truck driver at Tanami. 

Emily Mbitjana: from caregiver to role model 

Emily Mbitjana, an Anmatjere grandmother, turned personal challenges into opportunities by joining Saltbush Indigenous Employment programs. 

She progressed from training to becoming a qualified cook and a finalist in the Northern Territory Training Awards, while inspiring others through her resilience and achievements. 

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CONTACT 

Saltbush Social Enterprises 

(08) 7915 7001 

info@saltbushnt.org.au