From its humble beginnings in a small pop-up office four years ago to becoming a leading provider of sustainable, high-quality office furniture in Northern Australia, Winya has redefined what it means to operate with purpose and impact.

Under the leadership of manager Michelle Smith and Territory-born operations manager Renee Baker, Winya’s success is built on the strength of its entire network — expert manufacturers, trusted suppliers, and a highly skilled interstate team, all working together to ensure seamless project execution.

With well-established supply chains in each state and sophisticated logistics, Winya efficiently delivers complex fit-outs across urban, regional, and remote locations.

At the core of Winya’s operations is a commitment to functionality and precision. The company’s robust systems streamline project management, ensuring that everything from design to installation runs smoothly. This integrated approach allows Winya to handle large-scale government and commercial contracts while maintaining the flexibility to tailor solutions to individual client needs.

“Over the past year, Winya has taken on a diverse range of projects, showcasing our ability to deliver innovative and practical solutions across various sectors,” says Michelle.

From designing and installing custom library shelving for NT Archives Library and Charles Darwin University to furnishing living-in accommodation at RAAF Tindal and RAAF Darwin, as well as providing durable airport seating for RAAF Tindal, Winya continues to push the boundaries of commercial fit-outs.

At the heart of Winya’s operations is a strong commitment to sustainability. The company’s take-back and end-of-life furniture policy ensures that items are either recycled or donated to remote Indigenous communities. This circular economy approach reflects Winya’s dedication to reducing waste and supporting those in need.

“Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for us,” says Renee. “It’s a core value that informs everything we do, from sourcing materials to engaging with local communities.”

In 2024, Winya made significant strides in sustainability by partnering with Larrakia artists to create exclusive fabric designs. These fabrics, which pay artists directly per metre sold, have been featured in projects such as the Darwin Convention Centre and are gaining traction with major corporations looking to integrate them into hotel chains, banks, and other large-scale venues nationwide.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see Indigenous art and culture showcased in spaces that people interact with daily,” says Michelle. “These designs tell stories, and we’re proud to play a role in sharing them.”

Collaboration lies at the core of Winya’s ethos. By prioritising partnerships with Indigenous builders and subcontractors, the company fosters opportunities for Indigenous employment and enterprise growth. In remote areas, Winya actively seeks out local Indigenous contractors to assist with furniture delivery and installation, further strengthening the Indigenous procurement supply chain.

“Working with local contractors is a win-win,” says Renee. “It ensures we’re supporting the community while also benefiting from their local knowledge and expertise.”

In 2024, the company won the prestigious NT Indigenous Business of the Year Award for Excellence in Defence Industry.

The recognition highlights Winya’s strategic investments, such as establishing warehousing in Darwin and employing skilled local staff to enhance service delivery in remote areas. The award citation praised Winya’s innovation, community engagement, and strategic partnerships, underscoring its pivotal role in supporting Defence capabilities while promoting Indigenous business growth.

“Receiving this award was a proud moment for our team,” says Michelle. “It validated the hard work we’ve put into building strong relationships and delivering exceptional results.

As Winya enters 2025, the company’s focus remains on Indigenous engagement, sustainability, and innovation. Plans to launch a Designed by Winya in-house custom product range are already underway, further cementing the company’s position as a leader in commercial furniture solutions. 

By continuing to drive change in consumer behaviour and advocating for Indigenous procurement, Winya is paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future.

“We’re excited about what’s to come,” says Michelle. “Our goal is to keep growing while staying true to our values of collaboration, sustainability, and excellence.”

For communities, businesses, or individuals interested in partnering with Winya, the message is clear: together, we can create meaningful change through collaboration and excellence.

CONTACT

Winya Indigenous Office Furniture 

58 Raphael Rd, Winnellie NT 0821 

0879 182 525 

nt@winya.com.au 

winya.com.au