The 36th Ethnic Business Awards (EBA) Gala Presentation Dinner was held on Saturday, November 8th at the Grand Chancellor Hotel in Hobart, Tasmania. The event welcomed approximately 300 guests from across Australia, including Federal and State Government officials — Ministers, Shadow Ministers, Members of Parliament, Senators — along with representatives from diplomatic missions, industry leaders, community figures, media representatives, the 12 EBA finalists, members of the EBA Board, and members of the Judging Panel. Their presence underscored the rich cultural diversity that continues to shape and strengthen Australia.

EBA Founder and Chairman, Joseph Assaf AO, opened the evening by affirming that the Ethnic Business Awards honour not only entrepreneurial success but also the resilience, vision, and cultural heritage that migrants and Indigenous Australians contribute to the nation. He highlighted that true achievement is born from overcoming adversity and creating legacies that uplift communities and reinforce Australia’s shared future.

Representing the Prime Minister, the Hon Tony Burke addressed attendees early in the evening, stating:
“The Ethnic Business Awards have been a gift to the nation from Joseph Assaf. Ever since he arrived in Australia in someone else’s shoes, he has served Australia, and these awards are among his lasting achievements.”

The evening was a powerful celebration of victory through resilience, showcasing twelve inspiring finalists across three categories: Indigenous in Business, Small Business, and the Henry Ngai Medium to Large Business Award.

Award Presentations

• The Honourable Madeleine Ogilvie MP, representing the Premier of Tasmania, the Hon Jeremy Rockliff, presented the first award of the evening — the Indigenous in Business Category — to Nicole Appleton of NLA Trucking (Victoria).

• The Hon Eric Abetz, Treasurer of Tasmania, presented the Small Business Award to Dr Corinna Steeb, born in Germany, of Prancing Pony Brewery (South Australia).

• The Honourable Senator Jonathon Duniam, representing the Leader of the Opposition, Sussan Ley, presented the Henry Ngai Medium to Large Business Award to Colette Assaf, born in Lebanon, of Montessori Academy (New South Wales).

The event was livestreamed and is available for viewing on the EBA Foundation’s Facebook page.

Broadcasts of the Awards will air on SBS Main Channel on 14 December and 20 December at 3:30pm.
Additional broadcasts on NITV and Aurora channels will follow, with dates to be advised.