Verification of Aboriginality – Terms & Conditions

1. Introduction

The Indigenous-designed economic governance infrastructure and Indigenous Future Leaders Assembly (IFLA) verification process provides a transparent, community-based framework for confirming Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander business ownership and cultural legitimacy.

This process is not a declaration of personal identity, but an assessment of compliance with IBIR verification standards.

2. Verification Requirements

Verification is assessed against four evidence-based criteria:

1. Confirmation of Descent: Written proof of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, signed and verified by a recognised organisation directly linked to the applicant's ancestry such as their Land Council, Prescribed Body Corporate (PBC), Native Title group, or Aboriginal Corporation.
2. Cultural Legitimacy of Ownership: A written and signed endorsement from the relevant Traditional Owner group or community organisation confirming the ownership claim is genuine and culturally appropriate.
3. Business Identity Cross-Check: Review of ASIC, ABN, and other public records to confirm that business ownership accurately reflects the verified Aboriginal individual(s). Where those records are unclear (for example where shares are held on trust), the assessor may seek further information, which if provided might satisfy them as to that ownership.
4. Cultural Permission: Written approval from the relevant family group, language centre, or cultural custodian for the use of cultural names, symbols, or stories.

At least three (3) of the four (4) written confirmations must be received for a business to progress to full IFLA verification.

3. Verification Outcomes

Verification outcomes are determined on the evidence provided and the results of the public register searches.

• A "Verified" outcome confirms the business meets the IBIR/IFLA verification standards.
• A "Not Verified" outcome simply means that sufficient evidence or confirmation could not be established at the time of assessment.

A "Not Verified" result does not:

• Deny or dispute a person's Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander identity.
• Make any finding or judgment about cultural heritage, community membership, or lineage.
• Reflect on a person's character, standing, or integrity.

It solely indicates that the evidence made available to the assessor did not meet the specific documentation and verification requirements of the IBIR process.

4. Privacy and Confidentiality

All information submitted for verification is treated as confidential and handled in accordance with privacy, cultural safety, and data protection protocols. Personal and cultural information is only shared with authorised IFLA assessors and community-endorsed representatives.

5. Cultural and Legal Integrity

Applicants must ensure all supporting documents and endorsements are accurate, current, and signed by recognised cultural authorities or incorporated Aboriginal entities. Providing false or misleading information may result in suspension or withdrawal of verification.

6. Review and Reconsideration

Applicants who receive a "Not Verified" outcome may request clarification or submit additional evidence for review.

They may also be referred to their relevant Aboriginal organisation, Land Council, or Prescribed Body Corporate for cultural guidance and support before reapplying.

7. Disclaimer and Liability

The IBIR and IFLA assessment process is designed to ensure cultural and business integrity within procurement and governance frameworks. While every effort is made to ensure fairness and accuracy, IBIR and IFLA do not make determinations about individual identity or genealogy.

Verification outcomes are administrative assessments of the business ownership and control – not personal declarations – and therefore cannot be used or interpreted as a denial of Aboriginality.

No liability shall arise for any reputational impact, loss, or perceived defamation resulting from a "Not Verified" outcome communicated in accordance with this policy.

All communications regarding verification status are provided in a respectful, factual, and confidential manner consistent with these terms.

9. Contact Us

If you have any questions about these Terms, please contact us at: