Waikato-Tainui and Indigenous Business Australia Sign Landmark Economic Partnership

A historic investment agreement between Waikato-Tainui and the Australian federal government agency Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) was signed in Sydney on Tuesday, 11 August 2026. As reported by both ABC and RNZ, the partnership aims to unlock new capital for First Nations-led projects in Australia, focusing on renewable energy, mining, infrastructure, and agriculture. The deal enables Waikato-Tainui, which holds approximately $AU2 billion in assets, to diversify its portfolio while supporting economic self-determination for Traditional Owners across the Tasman. IBA chair Darren Godwell, a descendant of the Kokoberren peoples, described the signing of the letter of intent as a "seismic shift" for Indigenous institutional capacity. He noted that the invitation to participate in large-scale projects is expected to generate significant demand from Traditional Owners seeking to lead developments on their own Country. Through the agreement, IBA will share market intelligence and relationships to help the iwi transition into the Australian market. Potential projects include Indigenous stakes in ports and the Dampier Seawater Desalination Plant in the Pilbara. Waikato-Tainui Chairman Tuku Morgan, who attended the Sydney signing, hailed the agreement as a "watershed moment." Mr Morgan stated the partnership is built on shared cultural and environmental values, fostering a new era of synergy between Māori and First Nations Australians. Beyond commercial returns, the iwi seeks to offset economic risks by expanding its footprint beyond its existing retail, residential, and agricultural holdings in Aotearoa. He also highlighted the 100,000-strong iwi’s presence in Australia, where approximately 15,000 members currently reside and have formed familial ties with First Nations communities. Michael Woodley, CEO of the Yindjibarndi Group, welcomed the initiative as a form of cross-border empowerment. He expressed hope that the deal would serve as a stepping stone for further global First Nations institutional investment, serving as a model for Indigenous people empowering one another across international borders. The agreement is scheduled to be signed a second time in New Zealand next month during the annual celebrations for the Māori Queen's coronation, cementing the bond between the two indigenous entities.