Bayview Beach Resort, Batu Ferringhi Beach, Penang, Malaysia

27-30 September 1999

Educating culturally-diverse entrepreneurs: immigrant and indigenous experiences in Australia

Associate Professor Jock Collins

University of Technology, Sydney, NSW Australia

Synopsis:

This paper investigates the educational experience and needs of cultural minority entrepreneurs in small businesses in Australia. It presents the results of a 1996 national survey of 1500 immigrant entrepreneurs in Australia and a 1998 survey of 50 indigenous entrepreneurs in NSW. The paper outlines the different rates of entrepreneurship of immigrant and indigenous minorities based on 1996 census data. It then outlines the key findings of the 1996 national survey of 1500 immigrant entrepreneurs. this includes analysis of diverse educational backgrounds, the differences in "cultural capital" that accrue due to different class backgrounds, the key educational needs of these entrepreneurs and the barriers to their accessing further education.

The paper then reviews the key findings from the 1998 survey of 50 indigenous entrepreneurs in NSW. This includes analysis of current educational backgrounds of indigenous entrepreneurs, their future educational needs and the barriers to accessing this needed education. the paper concluded with policy recommendations, including those for internet based courses.