About Tellus
Tellus takes its name from the Roman word for Earth — evoking land, foundation, growth and prosperity. It reflects our long-term view: unlocking the economic value of Country while protecting it for future generations.
Vision
Remote communities where Aboriginal people have strong participation in the economy, secure livelihoods, and the opportunity to shape their own futures — free from entrenched disadvantage.
Mission
To improve employment, economic participation and financial security for Aboriginal people in remote communities by delivering targeted, place-based initiatives and partnering with organisations that create sustainable jobs, strengthen local economies, and reduce long-term welfare dependence.
The Challenge
Despite decades of public investment, many regional and remote Aboriginal communities continue to experience entrenched economic disadvantage — high unemployment, low labour force participation, and limited engagement in mainstream economic activity. Current approaches are often insufficiently focused on economic participation as the primary driver of long-term change.
Our Values
Practical pathways that increase employment, enterprise and financial independence.
Aboriginal leadership and locally driven economic solutions.
Meaningful employment and participation are central to wellbeing.
Structural solutions that reduce intergenerational disadvantage.
Collaborating with employers, contractors, communities and governments.
Measurable outcomes — jobs created, incomes increased, welfare reliance reduced.
Deploying resources responsibly to create enduring economic benefit.
Founder's Intent
Tellus was established with a clear commitment to improving economic outcomes for Aboriginal people in remote Australia. Our intent is to create a practical, financially sustainable, long-term vehicle that supports the development of Aboriginal businesses, increases employment, strengthens workforce participation, and supports pathways to financial independence.
We work in genuine partnership with Aboriginal organisations, communities, industry, employers, contractors, governments and philanthropy to unlock opportunity and build local economic capability — stewarding resources responsibly, for the long term.
Relationship with ServeGate
Tellus Development Foundation was established with founding support from ServeGate Australia, which provided seed funding and technical assistance during establishment. Tellus operates as an independent charity with its own board, governance and strategic direction — with a clear pathway to full independence.
Read about our governance →