Our Story
The Alliance emerged from a shared vision among Aboriginal organisations determined to take back leadership within the sandalwood industry.
For countless generations, Aboriginal people have cared for and used sandalwood for ceremony, healing & trade.
Today, the Alliance continues this legacy, combining cultural knowledge with contemporary industry strategy to build an ethical, sustainable industry grounded in respect for Country.
Our Values
Respect for Country and Culture
Sustainability and Regeneration
Collaboration and Shared Prosperity
Integrity and Accountability
Our Vision
To be the leading Aboriginal-led industry partnership supporting a sustainable, ethical and culturally respectful sandalwood industry —
one that empowers Aboriginal business leadership and ensures enduring benefits for Country, culture and commerce.
Our Mission
Our mission is to strengthen collaboration, stewardship and innovation throughout the sandalwood supply chain. From land management and harvesting to processing, product development and trade, we work to ensure Aboriginal people are at the forefront of all decision-making. By honouring thousands of years of cultural knowledge and adapting modern enterprise models, we are shaping an industry that can thrive for generations.
Our Purpose
We exist to unite and strengthen the sandalwood sector through Aboriginal leadership, cultural integrity, environmental sustainability
and economic empowerment. We support Aboriginal organisations to overcome barriers, access market opportunities and influence policy
in a way that prioritises community benefit and protects Country.
Our Members
Our members include Aboriginal businesses and Native Title groups such as Yugunga-Nya Native Title Aboriginal Corporation, Ngaanyatjarra Council, Tjiwarl Aboriginal Corporation, Kutkabubba Aboriginal Corporation, K Farmer Dutjahn Foundation and others across the vast sandalwood region. Each member contributes cultural knowledge, land responsibility and local leadership.
Our Governance
ASA is guided by an independent Chair and a member-driven governance structure ensuring transparency, fairness and Aboriginal decision-making at every level. Our collective leadership model ensures that all member organisations have a voice and a role in shaping the industry’s future.
Partnerships
We work with government, industry and community partners to drive policy reform, support training and employment pathways and promote ethical, culturally aligned industry practices. Together, we are building a sandalwood sector that is regenerative, culturally grounded and economically strong.