QRC member companies also spent $83 million with more than 55 Indigenous business, which creates further indirect employment opportunities, QRC CEO Michael Roche said.

As a sector largely operating in regional and remote communities with high Indigenous populations, bridging the divide with tangible opportunity was of great priority, he said.

“We have a vested responsibility to spur opportunity for training, employment and local Indigenous business and I’m proud to say the sector does this well,” Roche said.

“Our annual Indigenous Awards are designed to recognise and celebrate those companies and individuals making a real difference and to inspire others to do the same.”