Courtney Paulsen
Courtney is a proud Noonuccal woman from Quandamooka Country (Minjerribah, North Stradbroke Island). As a passionate First Nations Procurement Lead, she dedicates her career to uplifting Indigenous businesses and fostering shared value between corporate organisations and First Nations enterprises.
With extensive experience in social procurement coordination and relationship management, Courtney has made significant strides in implementing Indigenous procurement strategies at major institutions, including Sydney University. Her expertise spans stakeholder engagement across multiple sectors, including corporate, government, and non-profit organisations.
Courtney's key achievements include evaluating addressable spend categories, implementing mandatory inclusion of Indigenous businesses in closed tenders, and establishing second-tier programs for large-value contracts. She has been instrumental in creating user-friendly buying tools that highlight Ethical, Sustainable, and Indigenous businesses, making it easier for buyers to support preferred suppliers.
As an active community member, Courtney is recognised as a thought leader in Indigenous procurement and has been invited to speak at career events on topics such as Indigenous leadership and the future of work.
Courtney’s vision for the future of Indigenous business is one of strength and prosperity, not only for First Nations people but for Australia as a whole. Her unique blend of experience, passion, and cultural insight makes her a valuable asset in driving positive change and creating opportunities for Indigenous communities and businesses across the nation.