In May, BAE Systems Australia delivered the Beacon First Nations STEM education program in Engawala (Alcoota School), about 160 kilometres northeast of Alice Springs. A second program was delivered the following week in Atitjere (Harts Range School), about 215 kilometres northeast of Alice Springs.
Delivered by our STEM education partner STEM Punks, this initiative directly supports our Jindalee Operational Radar Network (JORN) First Nations Remote Sites Strategy and our enterprise-wide Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).
Nicole, BAE Systems Australia’s Community Investment Lead, said:
“Delivering Beacon in the remote communities of Harts Range and Engawala for a second consecutive year reflects our ongoing commitment to improving STEM outcomes for students who might not otherwise have access.
“For us, this isn’t a box to tick, it’s about genuine relationships and building an authentic partnership to create meaningful, lasting impact. When you see these students light up as they discover something new, you know you’re part of something special.”
While in Alice Springs, the team also met with several First Nations-owned suppliers that contribute products and services into our programs, strengthening relationships and identifying future opportunities.
A highlight for the group was a visit to our community partner, Clontarf Foundation’s Academy at Yirara College. The Clontarf Foundation supports young men to attend school, complete Year 12 and transition into employment.
In 2026, there are 161 Clontarf Foundation Academies within 172 schools across Western Australia, Northern Territory, Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia. Our partnership supports their academies in Alice Springs and Adelaide.
The defence industry has an important role to play in supporting long-term outcomes for First Nations communities and businesses. Initiatives like the Beacon First Nations education program sparks students’ curiosity about STEM subjects, encouraging them to imagine exciting careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths. Students are immersed into meaningful learning experiences in some of Australia’s most remote schools.
Research from Supply Nation’s The Sleeping Giant Rises report (2025) shows that every dollar spent with First Nations businesses creates $3.66 of positive economic and social value for First Nations communities.
These activities are key to building trusted and enduring relationships with remote First Nations communities and businesses near where JORN Radar 3 operates.