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Frank Mitchell’s early years were fraught with challenges, steering his life towards a precarious path. As a teenager, he faced the heart-wrenching loss of two friends, one to drugs and the other to suicide, and struggled to find his footing in school.

However, a transformative moment came with the birth of his son, which served as a pivotal turning point. This new chapter brought with it the responsibilities of fatherhood, inspiring Frank to break free from what he described as a “death spiral.”

Encouraged by his uncle’s guidance, Frank embarked on a new journey by pursuing an electrical apprenticeship. This decision set the foundation for a remarkable career turnaround.

Today, at 43, Frank is a successful entrepreneur, proudly operating four thriving electrical and construction businesses in Western Australia. Over the past decade, his ventures have provided employment opportunities to more than 70 Aboriginal individuals, reflecting his commitment to giving back to his community and fostering positive change.

Now, at 43, Frank runs four electrical and construction businesses in his home state of Western Australia. In the last decade, he has created over 70 roles for Aboriginal people.

Local Hero Frank Mitchell and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards at the National Arboretum in Canberra. Source: AAP / Mick Tsikas/AAP Image

It’s an achievement that’s seen him named 2026 Local Hero at the Australian of the Year Awards.

“I used to talk about paying it forward,” he said while accepting his award in Canberra.

“Our Old People had a word for this: reciprocity.

“If more Australians can embrace in ancient cycle of responsibility and reciprocity, we can work together and walk together for a better future for mob, for our children and for all those who come after us.”

Frank took the plunge as a business owner in 2015, beginning with only eight staff. Now, he employs 200 full-time staff across four businesses, Kardan Construction, Wilco Electrical, Baldja RSGx and Bilyaa Arch&Design.

His efforts have seen a mammoth investment in Indigenous business with his businesses investing more than $11 million to Aboriginal subcontractors.

Speaking to SBS News, Frank said he prioritises employing those who may not be given the chance elsewhere.

“I know that sometimes opportunity in a small country town can be the difference between turning your life around or heading down the wrong path,” he said.

Local Hero Frank Mitchell after the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards at the National Arboretum in Canberra. Source: AAP / Mick Tsikas/AAP Image

“If we can always offer first line of offer for any position to Aboriginal [people] and then secondly to women, we know that we’ve exhausted two cohorts that might not otherwise had a look in.”

National Australia Day Council chief executive Mark Fraser said Frank is a leader for what can be achieved through “collaboration and social inclusion”.

“Frank’s lived experience has inspired him to pay it forward and create opportunities for others,” he said in a statement.

“His approach to building an industry-led community that combines training, employment and culture is delivering stronger futures for people who need them most, and demostrates what can be achieved through collaboration and social inclusion.”