About BindiLee Painting Services
What inspired you to create your business?
“My business was inspired by both my journey as a painter and decorator, and my identity as a proud Quandamooka Noonuccal woman. Working in the trade industry, I could see there was a real gap when it came to representation, particularly for Indigenous women. I knew I wanted to be part of changing that.
BindiLee Painting Services was created not just as a business, but as a pathway. A pathway to create opportunities, to build confidence, and to show that women—especially Aboriginal women—have a strong and respected place in the trades.
At the same time, my passion for art and storytelling has always been a big part of who I am. Through murals and artwork, I’m able to bring culture into spaces in a meaningful and contemporary way—sharing stories, connecting people to Country, and creating something that communities can feel proud of. What truly inspired me was the idea of building something bigger than myself—combining trade and culture to create real impact. Whether it’s mentoring apprentices, creating culturally safe workplaces, or painting stories on walls, everything I do is about building deadly futures for the next generation.”
Transitioning from murals and artwork to residential painting is a big change scale-wise. What was that shift like for you?
“The shift between murals and residential painting is definitely a change in scale, but for me, they’ve always been connected through my trade.
Painting and decorating is where my foundation comes from—it’s the skillset that allows me to deliver high-quality finishes, whether I’m working on a home or a large-scale mural. Murals bring in the storytelling and cultural elements, while residential painting requires precision, efficiency, and attention to detail in a different way.
Rather than seeing it as a big shift, I see it as a balance. Residential and commercial painting provide consistency and structure within the business, while murals and artwork allow me to express culture, creativity, and connection to Country.
Both sides of the business strengthen each other. My trade background ensures my murals are completed to a professional standard, and my artistic work brings a unique perspective and care into every painting project I take on.
At the end of the day, whether it’s a family home or a community mural, it’s all about delivering quality work and creating spaces that people feel proud of.“
What are your future aspirations for the business?
“My future aspirations for BindiLee Painting Services are centred around growth, impact, and creating long-term opportunities for others.
I want to continue expanding the business into larger community projects—particularly in the mural and public art space—where storytelling, culture, and place can come together in a meaningful way. At the same time, I am focused on strengthening our painting services across residential and commercial sectors, ensuring we deliver high-quality work while maintaining culturally safe and supportive worksites.
A major goal of mine is to grow the “Sisters Onsite” team—creating more pathways for Indigenous women to enter and thrive in the trades. This includes mentoring apprentices, providing real job opportunities, and building a strong, values-driven team that supports each other both professionally and personally.
I also see the future of the business extending beyond painting alone—into workshops, education, and community engagement—sharing culture through art and creating spaces for learning and connection.
Ultimately, my vision is to build a business that not only succeeds commercially, but also creates lasting impact—empowering the next generation, strengthening community, and continuing to build deadly futures.”
What is the best part of operating your business?
“The best part of operating my business is seeing the impact it has on people—both within my team and out in the community.
Working alongside my apprentices and watching their growth in confidence, skills, and independence is something I’m incredibly proud of. Creating a culturally safe and supportive space for women in trade, especially Aboriginal women, is at the core of what I do, and seeing them step into their strength is the most rewarding part of the journey.
I also love the opportunity to bring stories to life through my artwork. Whether it’s a mural in a school, a community space, or a workplace, being able to share culture, connect people to Country, and create something meaningful that others can engage with every day is really special.
Every project is more than just a job—it’s a chance to build relationships, create opportunities, and leave something positive behind. That’s what makes it all worth it.”
Your mission to create culturally safe spaces for young Indigenous women in trades is incredibly powerful. Where did that vision come from?
That vision really comes from my own journey.
Working in the trade industry, I often found myself in spaces where there was very little representation of women, and even less of Indigenous women.
It can be a tough environment to navigate when you don’t always feel seen, understood, or supported.
Through those experiences, I knew I wanted to create something different. I wanted to build a space where young Indigenous women could come into the trades and feel safe, supported, and confident in who they are—without having to compromise their identity.
As I grew BindiLee Painting Services, that vision naturally became a core part of the business. It’s not just about teaching a trade—it’s about mentoring, building confidence, and creating real opportunities for women to step into strong, independent futures.
The “Sisters Onsite” team is a reflection of that. It’s about showing that there is a place for women in this industry, and that we can support each other while doing high-quality, professional work.
I’m passionate about creating pathways because I know what it feels like to be the only one in the room. If I can help change that for the next generation—make it easier, safer, and more empowering—then that’s something I’m really proud to stand behind.
What do you hope to see with the Queensland Indigenous business sector in 5 years?
“In the next five years, I hope to see the Queensland Indigenous business sector continue to grow in strength, visibility, and influence—where Indigenous businesses are not only participating, but leading across a wide range of industries.
I’d love to see more opportunities that support sustainable growth, not just start-up phases—creating long-term pathways for businesses to scale, employ, and thrive. This includes stronger procurement pathways, meaningful partnerships, and greater recognition of the value Indigenous businesses bring through both economic contribution and cultural knowledge.
I’m particularly passionate about seeing more Indigenous women in business and in trades—stepping into leadership roles, building their own companies, and being supported in culturally safe and empowering environments.
I also hope to see a stronger sense of collaboration across the sector—where we continue to back each other, share knowledge, and grow together rather than in isolation.
Ultimately, I want to see a future where Indigenous businesses are not the exception, but a powerful and visible part of the economy—driving change, creating opportunities, and building strong, self-determined futures for our communities.”
What challenges did you face when re-establishing in Queensland? How did you overcome it?
“Re-establishing myself in Queensland came with a number of challenges, especially as a working mum starting again while raising a young family.
Before moving back, I was working for a large company in my trade, while running BindiLee as an art-based business on the side. After relocating, I had a son under one and was pregnant with my second, so I needed something that gave me flexibility while still allowing me to continue working.
That’s when I made the decision to expand BindiLee from just artwork into a broader business—bringing together my trade in painting and decorating with my mural and art practice. This was the beginning of BindiLee Painting Services as it is today.
Balancing motherhood with growing a business was not easy. It was a lot to carry, but I stayed focused on creating something that would support both my family and my future.
I leaned on my networks, especially within the Indigenous business community, and I also relied heavily on my family for support—and I still do. That support has been a big part of how I’ve been able to keep going and continue to grow.
Over time, through consistency and hard work, I’ve been able to build a business that reflects both my trade and my culture.
What started as a need for flexibility has grown into something much bigger, and that’s something I’m incredibly proud of.”
Any accomplishments you want to share with everyone?
“There have been a number of milestones along the way that I’m really proud of, both personally and professionally.
One of my biggest accomplishments is becoming a businesswoman. It’s something I never was before and never really knew how to do. Through hard work, backing myself, and building strong networks around me, I’ve been able to learn, grow, and step into that space. Being a “boss lady” is still new to me in many ways, but it’s a journey I’m proud to be on.
Starting BindiLee Painting Services and growing it into a business that delivers both high-quality painting and meaningful cultural artwork has been a huge part of that journey. In 2024, I was honoured to receive a Master Painters Award for a Special Project in the Specialty Painting category, which was a really special moment of recognition within the industry.
Being recognised as a founding member of QIBN is also something I’m incredibly proud of—it reflects how far I’ve come and the direction I’m heading.
More than anything, I see my accomplishments in the growth of the people around me, the relationships I’ve built, and the opportunities that continue to open up—not just for myself, but for the next generation coming through.”
What is one piece of advice you would give someone wanting to start a business or is new to business?
“My biggest piece of advice would be to back yourself, even when you don’t have it all figured out.
Starting a business can feel overwhelming, especially when it’s something completely new. I didn’t come from a business background, and I had to learn as I went—but what made the difference was being willing to give it a go, ask questions, and surround myself with the right people.
I’ve personally leaned on other Indigenous businesses a lot for support and advice, and that’s been a huge part of my journey. There’s so much strength in community, and we really do lift each other up. Don’t be afraid to reach out, connect, and learn from others who are walking a similar path.
Also, stay true to who you are. Your values, your story, and your culture are your strength—don’t lose that trying to fit into what you think business “should” look like.
Most importantly, be patient with yourself. Growth takes time, and every step forward—no matter how small—is part of the journey.”
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BindiLee Painting Services