05 MAR 2025

Elders and Charles Sturt University forge strategic partnership

Elders and Charles Sturt University have forged a strategic partnership to propel agricultural innovation.

At a glance:

  • Charles Sturt University has partnered with Elders, Australia’s leading agribusiness to collaborate on initiatives that advance agricultural innovation, sustainability, and education
  • A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed on Tuesday 4 March 2025 at Elders Head Office in Adelaide 
  • Key objectives of the MOU include the establishment of a BioSolutions Innovation and Knowledge Hub; support for Charles Sturt University’s First Nations Agricultural Initiative; engagement activities in research, education, and facilities activation; and curated student engagement programs.

Charles Sturt University has partnered with Elders, Australia’s leading agribusiness to collaborate on initiatives that advance agricultural innovation, sustainability, and education.

A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed on Tuesday 4 March at Elders Head Office in Adelaide, where a range of senior staff from Charles Sturt and Elders gathered for the occasion.  

Key intentions under the MOU include:

  1. Establishment of a BioSolutions Innovation and Knowledge Hub 
  2. Support for Charles Sturt University’s First Nations Agricultural Initiative
  3. Engagement Activities in Research, Education, and Facilities Activation
  4. Curated Student Engagement Programs.

The MOU represents a significant advancement in the collaboration between Charles Sturt University and Elders. 

Charles Sturt University Chancellor Dr Michele Allan AO said both organisations are dedicated to driving innovation and fostering the next generation of agricultural leaders through this strategic partnership.

“We are thrilled to embark on this significant partnership with Elders,” Dr Allan said. 

“This collaboration not only aligns with our strategic vision but also enhances our commitment to fostering innovation, sustainability, and educational excellence in the agricultural sector. Together, we will provide valuable opportunities for our students and drive forward the future of Australian agriculture."

Elders Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mr Mark Allison welcomed the new partnership. 

“Our partnership with Charles Sturt University marks a transformative moment for Australian agriculture,” Mr Allison said.

“By joining forces, we are equipped to push the boundaries of innovation and sustainability within the industry. This collaboration underscores our dedication to developing the next generation of agricultural professionals and ensuring the longevity and prosperity of Australia's agricultural sector.”

Elders and Charles Sturt University enthusiastically invite the collective efforts of producers, advisors, researchers, startups, government agencies, investors, and the community to join in advancing agricultural innovation. The Charles Sturt University and Elders partnership heralds a new era of agricultural innovation in Australia.

Charles Sturt University is Australia’s largest regional university, educating more than 25 per cent of Australia’s agricultural graduates annually. It is also one of the largest agricultural applied research institutions in Australia.  

Elders is Australia’s leading agribusiness providing various offerings including agricultural goods and services to primary producers.

Header image: Left to right: David McKeon, Head of Thomas Elder Sustainable Agriculture, Elders, Mark Allison, MD and CEO, Elders, Dr Michele Allan AO, Chancellor of Charles Sturt University, Hsiu Ling Mai, Head of Sustainability, Elders, Nick Pagett, Executive Director – Agri Park, Charles Sturt University and Anna Bennett, Executive General Manager, Strategy, Sustainability and Innovation, Elders.