We studied Aboriginal employment issues in Anmatjere region using a sustainable livelihood framework to take account of assets and institutions that impact on livelihood outcomes. We found a number of entities and ways of operating that bridge between two distinctive cultures: workplace culture and Aboriginal culture. Recognising and developing the key role of these nodes and institutions is critical to a) building the region’s capacity to retain benefit from planned horticulture and mining developments, b) allowing Aboriginal people effective choices between employment and other culturally and family-based livelihood activities, c) understanding tradeoffs that involve their time and identity.