Dunns Plumbing Service is an Indigenous business based in Wagga Wagga in southern New South Wales that was founded in 2016. It provides a range of water, gas and drainage maintenance and installation services.

Dunns Plumbing has quickly earned a reputation not only for delivering high standards of service, but for also being dedicated and passionate supporters of the local community.

Brock Dunn, a proud Wiradjuri man who was born and raised in Dubbo, is the company’s founder and owner. He spoke to us about how he’s driven the business forward and the role Downer has played in supporting his ongoing success. 

How did your business start?

I completed my plumbing apprenticeship in the commercial plumbing space which gave me a strong foundation before starting Dunns Plumbing in 2016. In the beginning, our focus was primarily on domestic maintenance and renovations. However, everything changed when we began securing local government contracts. This shift opened the door to new opportunities, allowing us to demonstrate our capabilities and prove that we were ready to take on larger, more complex projects.

Why is working in the Defence Industry important to your business?

It has provided us with a steady stream of work, which has been instrumental in expanding our team. The scale and scope of projects has enabled us to deliver an even higher standard of service. It’s also allowed us to contribute to the local economy by taking on more apprentices and helping to nurture the next generation of tradies. 

What is the most valuable support a Prime can provide to your business?

The most valuable support a Prime can provide is access. Access to opportunities, resources, and networks that would otherwise remain beyond our grasp. They play a pivotal role in opening doors to larger projects and offering mentorship and support, both essential for scaling our capabilities and fostering growth.

Our partnership with Downer Defence has really given us a sense of confidence, enabling us to tackle bigger challenges with the assurance that we have the backing of a trusted industry leader. 

What advice would you give another SME trying to start up or scale in the Defence industry?

Focus on building partnerships and be known for reliability. Perfect your craft and earn a reputation for consistent, high-quality work.  Embrace adaptability; be ready to pivot with shifting demands, innovate continuously, and invest in improvement.

Also, staying informed and compliant with the industry’s regulations and security requirements is fundamental to operating in the Defence Industry.  

What’s the significance of Downer partnering with the local Indigenous community as part of their role managing and maintaining the Defence Estate? 

Downer’s partnerships with local Indigenous communities represent a transformative approach that creates meaningful opportunities and deepens community connections.

I appreciate how these collaborations honour the Indigenous bond with the land, weaving our knowledge and practices into its stewardship. It respects our heritage while ensuring Defence projects uplift those who call these places home.

How important is the success of your business in providing opportunities for other Indigenous employees?  

As a Wiradjuri man, the success of my business is incredibly important in providing a powerful proof of concept, demonstrating that Indigenous people can own and thrive in business which is essential for inspiring the next generation.

Crucially, it also allows me to break down barriers for young Indigenous people by offering them a clear pathway to meaningful employment and career growth that might otherwise feel out of reach.  

Find out more about Dunns Plumbing Service.

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