Select Plant Australia Partners with Bandu to Empower Indigenous Youth Through Education and Opportunity 

New partnership creates pathways for First Nations students transitioning from high school to tertiary education and employment

4 September 2025: Select Plant Australia announced its official partnership with Bandu, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting Indigenous students as they transition from high school into tertiary education and employment. The collaboration aims to provide well-being, support and career readiness resources that First Nations youth need to thrive.

The partnership forms a cornerstone of the Select Plant Australia Indigenous Youth Education Fund, launched earlier this year to honour the life and legacy of late Business Unit Leader Nathan Mitschuinig, a proud Wiradjuri man who passed away last year.

The partnership delivers long-term, meaningful outcomes through comprehensive support across four key areas:

• Accommodation: Provide culturally safe housing for First Nations university students and apprentices.

• Education: Removing barriers to tertiary and trade education

• Employment: Creating real-world pathways through mentoring, experience days, and job placements

• Community: Fostering cultural identity and social connection through events and engagement

"This partnership is about more than financial support; it's about action, connection, and reconciliation," said Ruairi Mawn, Select Business Unit Leader. "It represents Select Plant Australia's commitment to contribute to real change, create future opportunities for First Nations youth and honour Nathan’s memory."

Honouring Nathan Mitschuinig's Vision 
Nathan Mitschuinig believed in the potential of young First Nation Australians and the power of education to change lives. The Select Plant Australia Indigenous Youth Education Fund brings his vision to life by supporting First Nations youth from disadvantaged backgrounds as they progress through school, further study and employment.

For more information about the Select Plant Australia Indigenous Youth Education Fund, visit here or to express interest in getting involved, email [email protected]