New building and construction company Jawoyn Contracting has launched with a focus on boosting Indigenous employment and training in the region.

The Katherine-based company established its office this month and will open its doors to the local business community at an official opening next week.

The company’s director John Berto says the idea to move into the industry came from a growing need to manage building and construction work on Jawoyn country.

“We’d been managing infrastructure projects and civil works with the Jawoyn Rangers,” Mr Berto said.

“It became obvious there was an important opportunity in growing a dedicated workforce and applying for public and private contracts, especially those on Jawoyn lands.

“Importantly, as advocates for Aboriginal people working to build our country, we believe it‘s important to invest in Indigenous employment and training and provide opportunities to Aboriginal people living on Jawoyn lands.”

The company has invested significant resources in its team and purchased equipment, including graders, excavators, bobcats and tip trucks.

“The investment is already paying off and we’ve completed a number of projects at Nitmiluk National Park, on Northern Territory Government and Roper Gulf Regional Council housing,” Mr Berto said.

“Our parent company the Jawoyn Association has proven itself as a serious player in tourism, land management and social support services – and we’re now turning our focus to building and construction.

“Jawoyn has forged a Multi Agency Partnership with the Northern Territory and Australian Governments and the Roper Gulf Regional Council to strengthen relationships, align local priorities and pursue social and economic opportunities.

“We’ve got a strong workforce ready for hire and we’re open for business to build across the region, the Top End and beyond.”