Who we are
First Nations Impact Advisory (FNIA) is an Indigenous-led firm built on real relationships, deep cultural knowledge, and decades of practical experience working with Industry, Government and Traditional Owner groups across Australia.
Tanya Sewter and Ross Browning founded FNIA because they believe that they can deliver optimal and meaningful outcomes for all stakeholders; First Nations communities, Industry and Governments. Through in depth understanding and experience working with First Nations Groups, FNIA is able to negotiate practical and meaningful outcomes that strikes the balance for all parties.
How we work
Our approach is straightforward: working with Traditional Owners to develop practical and meaningful outcomes. We don't speak for stakeholders, we assist the group we represent to deliver insightful — we support them, with the preparation, documentation, and strategic backing they need to negotiate effectively.
Our four-stage process — scoping, planning workshops, documentation, and handover — we can provide the technical support to ensure success.
We're also committed to sustainable economic development for regional Indigenous communities. As we grow, FNIA prioritises hiring Indigenous staff and subcontracting Indigenous businesses.
Tanya Sewter — Managing Director
Tanya Sewter is a proud Aboriginal woman from Mornington Island Lardil people in the Gulf of Carpentaria with cultural connections to the Waanyi/Gangalidda people of northwest Queensland.
Tanya holds qualifications in Human Resources and Psychology and has over 20 years of experience specialising in First Nations employment, engagement, and Traditional Owner partnerships. Her extensive work with Traditional Owners and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities has strengthened her commitment to culturally informed and respectful engagement practices. Tanya’s leadership has supported multiple organisations to successfully meet their cultural responsibilities and deliver sustainable outcomes.
Ross Browning — Director & Project Coordinator
Ross has worked both internationally and domestically, building respectful partnerships with Traditional Owner groups across complex sectors.
He's a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD) and holds a Master of Environmental Management. Ross has a solid track record of creating positive outcomes for Traditional Owner groups, Industry and Governments through strong relationships and robust experience.
At FNIA, Ross coordinates projects and strategic planning, governance documentation, planning and the practical work of delivering agreements.