How it all started 

Barmal Bijiril was created to address the critical need for a First Nations-owned and led organisation within Australia’s philanthropic sector.

With an establishment grant from the Towards a Just Society Fund in 2020 and additional support from Indigenous Employment Partners, the CEO formed a First Nations Elders Advisory Group and a Philanthropic Reference Group in early 2021.

The Elders Advisory Group refined and championed the vision for a national First Nations representative body of philanthropic professionals, which led to the formation of The Blak Loungeroom. This initiative provides a space for First Nations voices to influence the sector meaningfully.

The Elders Group also helped design a Truth-Telling Program, offering philanthropic trustees an opportunity to engage in mutual healing and build stronger, trust-based relationships with First Nations communities.

Additionally, the Group highlighted the urgent need to address the severe challenges within the First Nations Youth Justice sector, identifying this as the top priority for the organisation.