In a heartening recognition of community impact, a West Australian Aboriginal entrepreneur has been celebrated as the Local Hero in the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards. Frank Mitchell, a 43-year-old Whadjuk-Yued Noongar man, received the prestigious honour for his remarkable efforts in generating hundreds of employment opportunities for Indigenous Australians within the electrical and construction industries.
From Humble Beginnings to Business Success
Mr Mitchell embarked on his entrepreneurial journey in 2015, founding a business with just eight employees and an initial turnover of $1.5 million. Over the years, his vision and dedication have propelled him to co-direct and co-found four thriving companies: Wilco Electrical, Kardan, Baldja, and Bilyaa. Collectively, these enterprises now employ more than 200 full-time staff, showcasing significant growth and a steadfast commitment to economic empowerment.
A Personal Journey Fuelled by Opportunity
Mr Mitchell's path to success was shaped by personal challenges, including early experiences with suicide among close friends and the responsibilities of being a single father. A pivotal moment came when his uncle offered him an electrical apprenticeship, which he describes as a life-changing opportunity. This act of faith inspired him to pledge to create similar pathways for his community, or "Mob," ensuring others could access transformative career prospects.
Creating Pathways for Indigenous Advancement
Through his leadership and partnerships, Mr Mitchell has established over 70 upskilling positions specifically for Aboriginal people in the sector. This includes 30 electrical apprenticeships, providing hands-on training and qualifications. Additionally, his initiatives have awarded more than $11 million to Aboriginal subcontractors, fostering economic independence and sustainable growth within Indigenous communities.
The award highlights not only Mr Mitchell's business acumen but also his profound social impact, reinforcing the importance of mentorship and opportunity in driving positive change. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and advocates for Indigenous employment across Australia.
