More than four in 10 Australian teenagers would consider starting a business if they knew where to begin, new NAB research shows, highlighting a gap that could limit Australia’s next generation of entrepreneurs.
Monkey Business - How First Nations-founded Salty Monkeys is making waves in business - NAB
30 October 2025
Business Banking
First Nations business drives growth and innovation
In the heart of the Torres Strait, Dennis Fay is proving that passion, community, and culture can spark a business built on passion for the ocean and adventure. that’s as adventurous as the ocean itself. As the founder of Salty Monkeys, Dennis has transformed a childhood love for the sea into a thriving brand that’s making a difference—locally and globally.
“It all started as a passion for the ocean and adventures in the Torres Strait,” Dennis said.
“Growing up, we were blessed with such a rich environment. That drove me to go out and explore, and eventually, to share those adventures with others.”
Armed with a GoPro and a sense of fun, Dennis began capturing his ocean journeys and sharing them on social media. What began as playful escapades complete with monkey masks inspired by a Bruno Mars video, quickly grew into a community of ocean lovers. The name Salty Monkeys stuck, and so did the spirit of adventure.
Dennis Fay, Founder of Salty Monkeys with NAB’s Head of Indigenous Banking, Noel Prakash
Today, Salty Monkeys is much more than an ocean adventure brand. It’s a platform for Indigenous artists, a provider of stylish apparel and dive gear, and a champion for youth engagement and marine safety in the Torres Strait.
“A big one for us is our partnership with the Torres Strait Island Regional Council to tackle marine debris—rubbish that’s tarnishing our pristine shores.”
Salty Monkeys is deeply invested in the community, running leadership and entrepreneurship workshops for young people, and promoting marine safety for the seafaring Torres Strait population.
Tens of tonnes of plastic and other debris washes up on Australian beaches every year.
Sick of seeing the beautiful Torres Strait coastline being swallowed by plastic and debris, Salty Monkeys established The Marine Debris Task Force. Supported by the NAB Foundation Community grant, the Task Force uses drones and artificial intelligence to collect data and find innovative solutions to keep beaches clean.
“The grant allowed us to buy equipment and train locals to use drones, helping us better understand and tackle the marine debris problem,” Dennis said.
NAB’s support has been a constant throughout Dennis’s journey.
“I’ve been a NAB customer for over 30 years. Over time, I’ve built trust and received tailored support, from starting as a sole trader to transitioning to a company structure, and now with funding to help our work in the Torres Strait.”
As we celebrate Indigenous Business Month 2025, Salty Monkeys stands as a testament to the strength found in collaboration, culture, and community. NAB is proud to support Indigenous businesses like Salty Monkeys, backing their vision and helping them make waves across Australia and beyond.
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