News & Insights
Protecting an Icon, Growing a Region: Gouldian Finch Centre Business Case
The Gouldian Finch, once abundant across northern Australia, is now endangered — its survival tied to the health of the tropical savanna landscapes of the Kimberley. Protecting this species means protecting one of the world’s most ecologically rich biomes. That’s why NAJA Business Consulting Services was proud to prepare the business case for the Gouldian Finch Interpretive and Conservation Centre, a flagship initiative led by the Save the Gouldian Fund. The Centre will combine conservation science, education, and sustainable tourism to secure the future of the finch while strengthening the Kimberley economy.
St Ives Lifestyle Village Estate Lagoon A Proud Chapter in My Journey
It was great to revisit a project I was involved in in my days as a public servant and see the joy on the residents faces today. Recently, I had the privilege of presenting to residents of the St Ives Lifestyle Village in Mandurah about the history of their lagoon - now a much-loved community and environmental asset on the Serpentine River foreshore. When first proposed, the idea of supplementing a degraded conservation category wetland with water from the Serpentine River was highly controversial. Concerns centred on environmental risks, particularly algal blooms, and whether altering the water regime of a conservation wetland was appropriate.
NAJA’s Model in Action: Delivering Resilience for the Coastal Great Southern
Pleased to share a significant project recently completed by NAJA Business Consulting Services on behalf of the Great Southern Development Commission (GSDC) – the Coastal Great Southern Regional Drought Resilience Plan Implementation Framework. This framework provides a clear, evidence-based pathway to prioritise drought resilience investment across the City of Albany, Shires of Denmark, Plantagenet, and southern Cranbrook. It aligns with the priorities of the WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund.
Regional Growth: The Missing Link? Incentivised Development
My article “Unlocking Regional Growth” appears in today’s West Australian — highlighting why housing and commercial projects across WA’s regions are stalling. This is equally applicable in metropolitan Perth. It’s not due to a lack of vision, but because the economics often don’t stack up. Tenure issues, high upfront costs, and fragmented processes are slowing progress - even in high-demand areas. At NAJA Business Consulting Services, we’ve built an enviable and successful track record of helping local governments, Aboriginal corporations
Build, Fund, Succeed: Strategic Business Training with NAJA
Are you looking to boost your business capability, secure grant funding, or better navigate complex government processes? NAJA Business Consulting Services, in collaboration with Jane Lewis (Redit Research), offers tailored training workshops designed to equip businesses, industry groups, local governments, not-for-profits, and chambers of commerce with the practical skills and insights needed to thrive. Over the past three years, NAJA has proudly partnered with the Town of Victoria Park to deliver a highly successful series of workshops
Productive and Energising visit to Canberra for the KRG
Back from Canberra — and Backing the Kimberley We have just returned from a productive and energising visit to Canberra with the Kimberley Regional Group (KRG), representing the four Kimberley Local Governments. We had the opportunity to meet with a wide range of ministers, shadow ministers, senior advisors, and departmental officials to advocate for the needs and aspirations of our communities in the Kimberley. We were warmly received, and we’re encouraged by the level of interest and engagement in the issues we face
NAJA’s Role in Driving Projects Across WA
It’s always rewarding to visit regional communities & witness the tangible impact of projects NAJA has supported through strategic business cases, cost-benefit analyses and funding pathways. During our recent trip to Broome, NAJA Business Consulting Services had the pleasure of facilitating a key workshop for the Shire. We were also fortunate to be taken on a tour of several local landmarks including the Broome Golf Club, Surf Club, Turf Club, Recreation Centre, PCYC
Northern Australia Conference in Cairns
It was great to have members of the Kimberley Regional Group (KRG) and a range of other WA delegates attend the Developing Northern Australia Conference in Cairns last week—an important forum for sharing ideas, strengthening partnerships, and tackling challenges across workforce, housing, climate resilience, Aboriginal economic empowerment, and enabling infrastructure. KRG Secretary Vernon Lawrence and Executive Officer Paul Rosair delivered joint presentations
NAJA’s Pivot Great Southern Offices in Albany
It’s always great to get down to NAJA’s Pivot Great Southern Offices in Albany and work there for the week. Catching up with Naja Associate Danielle Killey and the Mayor Greg Stocks and CEO Andrew Sharpe of the City of Albany is also both interesting and fun Catching up with Lee Sounness from the Great Southern Development Commision to kickstart our new Great Southern Coastal drought framework project engagement, with associates Debra Pearce, John Ruprecht and Brian Sharp was also timely
Here we go again Local Governments planning for 2025/26 with budgeting underway
Here we go again Local Governments planning for 2025/26 with budgeting underway or about to commence – with likely Increases in Local Government Rates looming THERE IS A BETTER WAY POEM Did you know that, on average, by increasing the Return on Investment (ROI) of their Land and Property assets by just 1% Local Governments can increase their revenue income by the equivalent of between a 4-12% rate rise.
Office Subleases and Hot Desking Available at PiVot in the Park Amazing Business Hub
The team at Pivot in the Park, in Victoria Park is pleased to announce that offices within its Amazing Business Hub have become available for sublease or even hot desking. Competitive rates are on offer for an enclosed office, or one or two open plan cubicles. Join a team of highly professional consultants, where partnering / collaboration opportunities abound, and even provides for respite from working from home.
Review of Financial Assistance Grants for the Kimberley Local Government Areas
This is an outstanding piece of work - NAJA Business Consulting is proud to have undertaken this contract. Arguably the most comprehensive review ever undertaken of the Financial Assistance Grants program For a full copy of the report check out the KRG website Finally thanks to our NAJA associates Jo Swan, Michelle Mackenzie, Jane Lewis, Jacqueline Limb and Bec Billing for their outstanding contributions.
Kimberley Regional Group met in the Shire of Halls Creek
The KRG April meeting was held in the Shire of Halls Creek where we travelled down the Tanami Road to see the incredible work being done by Main Roads Western Australia and local contractors as they progress sealing the Tanami Road to the NT border. The KRG long advocated for this new inland freight route which coupled with first port of entry status at Wyndham Port creates a new freight corridor from southern
Regional Capitals Alliance WA met in the Shire of East Pilbara
A big thank you to the Shire of East Pilbara for hosting the recent Regional Capitals Alliance of Western Australia (RCAWA) meeting in Newman. It was a very productive gathering, with great engagement across the board and valuable insights shared by all members. The in-person meeting provided an excellent opportunity to visit key project sites around town – recently completed, underway, and planned for the future.
The KRG Federal and State Budget Submission 2025/2026
In advance of the State and Federal Elections, the Kimberley Regional Group put forward their submission outlining the policy settings and investment needed to drive value creation for our region, our state and the nation. In this budget submission Community Safety remains a “pressing issue” for funding across the Kimberley prompting the KRG to formulate a $51m crime prevention package
Water Lily Place Housing Development in Kununurra - Funding Announcement
Naja Business Consulting Services is once again privileged to have developed the Business Case for the $7.9m Child Care and Staff Accommodation project In Water Lily Place which has now attracted a funding commitment from the Cook Labor Government of $5m. We would like to thank our key Associates Jo Swan Jane Lewis Bec Billing and Steve Markham
Celebrating Transformative Funding and Growth for Wyndham and Kununurra
NAJA Business Consulting Services is thrilled with this week's announcement by the Prime Minister of significant funding for key projects in the communities of Wyndham and Kununurra: $𝟭𝟵.𝟲𝗠 for the Wyndham Multi-Purpose Community Hub and Evacuation Centre $𝟭𝟯.𝟮𝗠 for the Wyndham Community Boat Launch Facility
Federal Funding for Local Governments via Financial Assistance Grants
Naja and associates Jo Swan Michelle Mackenzie and Jane Lewis are thrilled to have undertaken the consultancy to complete this crucial piece of work which highlights the inequities facing regional remote communities outlined in this report. Access to facilities and services are critical for thriving regional communities with strong economies.
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from Naja Business Consulting Services!
As we wrap up 2024, not only do we celebrate the Festive Season but also a significant milestone – Naja Business Consulting Services' 10th Year Anniversary! We attended and held numerous events to celebrate a year of achievements. This year has been both busy and rewarding, and we are incredibly grateful for the trust and support of our clients, associates, and stakeholders. It's been a pleasure working with you all, and we're excited with what lies ahead in the new year. Looking forward to an equally enjoyable and prosperous 2025.
Celebrating Accessibility & Inclusion at the Most Accessible Communities WA Awards
What an incredible afternoon at the Most Accessible Communities WA Awards, celebrating the outstanding efforts to foster inclusive communities across Western Australia. A big thank you to the City of Perth for hosting this event. It was inspiring to see a record number of entries, highlighting local councils' dedication to improving accessibility. Congratulations to the Shire of Pingelly, the City of Kalamunda, and the City of Swan for their achievements. NAJA Business Consulting Services is proud to be a major sponsor of this prestigious event.
Office Subleases and Hot Desking Available at PiVot in the Park Amazing Business Hub
The team at Pivot in the Park, in Victoria Park is pleased to announce that offices within its Amazing Business Hub have become available for sublease or even hot desking. Competitive rates are on offer for an enclosed office, or one or two open plan cubicles. Join a team of highly professional consultants, where partnering / collaboration opportunities abound, and even provides for respite from working from home or those lovely little toddlers who want to help you work. Be quick – It's sure to be snapped up shortly.
The KRG visited Canberra to advocate for investment in the Kimberley.
It’s a privilege for NAJA to work with such a dedicated team driving change in the Kimberley. Another successful Canberra visit to advocate for increased investment, highlighting the region’s strategic assets. KRG members met with Ministers and MPs to discuss the Kimberley Investment Prospectus and opportunities for growth, value creation, and national resilience.
Regional Capitals Alliance Western Australia met in the City of Bunbury
This month the Regional Capitals Alliance Western Australia met at the thriving City of Bunbury. It was a great chance to network, get up to date on regional capital projects and strategise priorities for next year. Thanks to Mayor Jaysen de San Miguel, CEO Alan Ferris and City of Bunbury staff for their hospitality and organisation of a tour of the City.
WA Local Government Association (WALGA) conference exhibition.
NAJA partnered with Rowan Hemsley from Hemsley Paterson at the WA Local Government Association conference exhibition. POEM is revolutionising the property industry by leveraging Local Government, Industry and most recently Aboriginal Corporation’s (Wagyl Kaip) property portfolios to increase revenue and offset rates increases
$14.1 million secured for Kununurra Emergency Evacuation Centre!
NAJA Business Consulting Services and its Associates are thrilled for the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley (SWEK) and humbled to be acknowledged for our contribution in helping them achieve their aspirations of building a resilient community. This successful funding achievement is a culmination of a large body of work commencing with a detailed East Kimberley
The Hon. David Littleproud MP, Leader of the Federal Nationals
Great to catch up with The Hon. David Littleproud MP, leader of the Federal Nationals, at the Regional Australian Institute Summit in Canberra. We presented him with the Kimberley Regional Group of Local Governments (KRG) and the Regional Capitals Alliance Western Australia (RCAWA) prospectus, investment frameworks and policy positions papers of both these exciting
Liz Ritchie, CEO, RIA at the Regional Australia Institute Summit 2024
NAJA Principal Paul Rosair is pleased to be in Canberra with members of the Kimberley Regional Group of Local Governments and Regional Capitals Alliance Western Australia attending the Regional Australia Institute Summit 2024. Fantastic to catch up with Liz Ritchie CEO of RIA and other Summit delegates. A great opportunity to highlight regional development
NAJA's Strategic POEM Review for Kalgoorlie
The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder has sought to further invest in the future of Kalgoorlie CBD within the context of its ‘Kal City Centre’ project, which is set to transform major precincts in the CBD into vibrant, economically strong, and diverse centres. Following Aldi's withdrawal from its planned development of the former Coles/Kmart site, the City acquired the 1.5ha
NAJA's Strategic POEM Review for Bunbury
As Western Australia’s Second City, the City of Bunbury plays a pivotal role in the economy of the region as it acts as a focal point for various economic activities, providing essential services and infrastructure to the surrounding hinterland areas. Currently, Bunbury, like many other regional towns and cities across Western Australia, is experiencing increased pressures
NAJA Undertaking POEM Review for Kalgoorlie
NAJA Business Consulting, in collaboration with Jana from Jointly Planning, has been engaged to undertake a Strategic Property Review for the city Kalgoorlie-Boulder Council in relation to the former Coles/Kmart site located in the city centre on Brookman Street. With its Kal City Centre project, Kalgoorlie-Boulder has sought to further invest in the future
POEM Wins Major Business Innovation Award
NAJA Business Consulting Services is proud to be the Winner of the “2023 Town of Victoria Park Business Innovation Award”. This award is in acknowledgment of NAJA’s “state of the art product”, POEM (Property Optimisation Evaluation Matrix) which is revolutionising the way Local Governments and property owners manage and realise the potential of their property estates. Thank you to our committed and talented associates who have helped make this happen.
Natural Disaster Impact Study
Communities are facing a pressing need to fortify their resilience against the escalating threat of natural disasters, particularly those that are subject to cyclones and flooding. It is within this context that the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley commissioned this pioneering resilience study to discern the resilience capabilities of the Shire’s communities and to explore what is required to prepare, respond and recover from the impact of natural disasters.
Warmun Community and Art Centre Visit
At the request of Lotterywest, I recently had the wonderful opportunity to visit the Warmun Community and Art Centre with Danielle Killey (Right Word Consulting), whilst enroute to Halls Creek. We were fortunate to meet with Diane McGill, Warmun Community CEO, and Ravi Schneider, Art Centre General Manager. The purpose of this visit was to gain an understanding of the needs and scope of the current buildings in Warmun, with a focus on the Art Centre.
Supporting KLRC to keep Aboriginal Language Strong
During NAJA's recent visit to Halls Creek, I enjoyed seeing the fantastic work being done at the Kimberley Language Resource Centre (KLRC), the first regional Aboriginal Language Centre established in Australia. KLRC directors' vision is for "our children to be proud language speakers, making them strong as Aboriginal people… and to stand tall on their culture and country." NAJA continues working with KLRC to strengthen the organisation and community.
PiVot Great Southern - Open for Business
NAJA Business Consulting Services can’t wait to spend more time in the stunning #greatsouthernregion after the official opening of our latest PiVot Business Consulting Services office on York Street in Albany. Regional development is our passion and together with local Albany-based NAJA associate Danielle Killey, and NAJA associates Jane Lewis and April Walker, we are looking forward to offering a range of business services.
NAJA to Undertake City of Fremantle Property Review
Naja is excited to announce that the City of Fremantle has engaged its services to complete a Property Evaluation Optimisation Matrix (POEM) review. Known for its maritime history, Victorian architecture, and flourishing arts community, the City of Fremantle is a landmark for tourism and locals alike. NAJA is proud to work with such an iconic Western Australian city to provide this unique service.
Natural Disaster Impact and Resilience Study Underway
NAJA has embarked on a significant endeavour aimed at benefiting the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley communities. The Shire is conducting a natural disaster and resilience study focusing on communities across the Kalumburu, Wyndham, and Kununurra regions. NAJA looks forward to continuing working with the Kimberley Regional Group of Local Governments on this project.
NAJA Produces First Property Report in QLD
The team at NAJA is proud to have produced our first POEM (Property Optimisation Evaluation Matrix) in Queensland. Thanks to Redland City Council staff and James O’Reilly for his kind words. “We are very pleased with the final product! A vitally important tool for evidence-based decision-making driving best practice. You were all a pleasure to work with!” A tremendous effort by NAJA and associates.
Connecting the Kimberley to WALGA and Perth
Did you know travelling between Kununurra and Broome is further than driving from London to Rome! Online meetings of the Kimberley Regional Group of Local Governments provide a great opportunity for the four Kimberley shires to connect across vast distances with each other, the WA Local Government Association (WALGA) and our colleagues in Perth, Canberra and across the Kimberley.
Kalumburu Meeting in The West Australian
It was a privilege meeting with community leaders in Kalumburu to understand the impact of natural disasters and what is needed to make their community more resilient - Thanks to The West Australian for reporting on this important work being progressed by the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley
Natural Disaster Impact and Resilience Study
Another important round of discussions to inform the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley’s Natural Disaster Impact and Resilience Study. Insightful discussions based on the immediate and ongoing impact of the recent Kimberley floods across the Kununurra community and the broader Shire. Great to be working with this team!
NAJA Shire of Irwin Property Report
Exciting times ahead for the Shire of Irwin and NAJA Business Consulting Services and Associates. The Shire of Irwin, ably led by President Michael Smith engaged the services of NAJA to undertake a Property Optimisation Evaluation Matrix (POEM) assessment of its strategic land and property estate.
NAJA Engages with Spaceport!
NAJA has recently began an engagement with local space initiative ‘Western Australia Spaceport’. Spaceport, led by founder April Walker, is an independent launch facility set to be located near the City of Albany. Open to the international and domestic markets, in 2025, this exciting project is one to keep an eye on!
NAJA Working with Kimberley Shire
Naja Business Consulting Services and our associates (Jane from Redit Research and Michelle from Mira-Consulting) are proud to be providing Executive Services and Strategic advice to a wonderful and passionate group of Kimberley Shire Presidents and CEOs during a particularly difficult period.
New Associates join the Pivot in the Park Team
NAJA Business Consulting Services are thrilled to announce three new associates joining the Pivot in the Park team! Bronte Macmillan from BMAC Consulting, Jana Joubert from Jointly Planning and Mapping, and Jo Swan from Swan Professional services. We look forward to seeing the success of our wonderful associates!
NAJA 2022 Christmas Function
Naja recently held its annual Christmas Function, attended by a range of clients and stakeholders. All of us here at Pivot in the Park” wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Prosperous and Safe 2023. It has been a privilege to have worked with you all and we hope 2023 will be equally enjoyable and successful for you all.
Shire of Harvey - Property Optimisation Review
NAJA were delighted to recently present to the Shire of Harvey their Property Optimisation and Evaluation Matrix (POEM) Review that encompassed 26 of the Shire’s strategic properties. The Shire of Harvey is the first regional WA local government to complete a POEM review.
SEGRA - Economic Growth Conference Tasmania
It was a pleasure for NAJA, alongside associate Redit Research, to attend the annual SEGRA conference hosted in Devonport, Tasmania from Wednesday August 31st – Friday September 2nd. The conference was wonderfully organised, as always, and NAJA looks forward to supporting SEGRA conferences in the future.
Redlands City Council Comes On Board
NAJA are thrilled to announce its first inter-state POEM engagement, with Redland City Council, in Queensland. This is a major milestone and a mutually beneficial opportunity for both NAJA and Redland, with the exciting prospect of NAJA becoming the pre-eminent “Property Optimisation and Evaluation Service” provider in Australia.
Local Business Training Courses
NAJA has recently completed a successful suite of local business workshops with the Town of Victoria Park. With a broad network of business sector associates, NAJA Business Consulting Services has the know-how and experience to navigate Government policy, planning, legislative and approvals processes.
City of Perth – Strategic Property Portfolio Review
"Maximise your local council's property portfolio to deliver community priorities." Utilising our “State of the Art” property optimisation and evaluation tool, POEM. This also complements the City's "Evolution to Excellence" initiative as the first city in Australia to adopt such an innovative analysis of its property portfolio.
Shire of Three Springs Tourism & Cost Benefits
NAJA Business Consulting Services is excited to say that through collaboration with the Three Springs community, Shire, Council and relevant Stakeholders. A Business Case, Cost-Benefit Analysis, Funding Strategy and REDs grant application have all been completed.
Cultural/Civic Infrastructure for Karratha
When considering development opportunities within the CBD, the City of Karratha recently engaged NAJA to conduct an investigation into its existing cultural and social infrastructure. Through a series of workshops, surveys and interviews, backed by a rigorous gap exercise and research into current trends and requirements.
Economic Sustainability & Viability for SWEK
NAJA’s recent work with the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley to develop an Economic Development Strategy (EDS) and Investment Prospectus (IP), has connected the local community with a broad range of stakeholders to successfully generate interest and investment into the Shire’s economy.
Unlocking City of Perth’s Property Portfolio
NAJA was recently engaged to provide a Strategic Property Portfolio Review which will assist the City of Perth to make informed decisions about the future development potential of some of its key infrastructure assets using our Property Optimisation Evaluation Matrix.
Project Updates
NAJA
Our past year has been capped off with the recent announcement of three successful CSRFF and Waste Management grants (which we were engaged to develop) awarded to the Wyndham Crocs Football Club, Muchea Sports Club and Adarsh Pty Ltd totalling over $1m.
Wyndham East Kimberley Strategy
NAJA is developing an East Kimberley Economic Development Strategy which will be used to inform the future direction of policy and project prioritisation for the Council. Read more about our projects, see our LinkedIn page.
Ben Wyatt opens “Pivot in the Park”
Ben’s opening speech was truly inspiring and the work he and his government has done on the State’s Covid-19 response amazing. This collaborative hub combines the exceptional talents of six like minded businesses collaborating together to provide a huge range of consultantcy services.
Agricultural Development in the NT
Naja Business Consulting Services and its Associates is proud to have been the lead consultancy firm in developing this transformational report. These are exciting times for Agricultural and Aquaculture development in Northern Australia. The prospects are unlimited.
NAJA & Langford Aboriginal Association
We are proud to be working with the Langford Aboriginal Association on this exciting project. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you are an Aged Care or Child Care service provider, Land Developer, Metropolitan Local Government or want to collaborate in any other way on this venture.
