Wartu is a majority Indigenous owned, managed and controlled engineering and civil construction company operating across South Australia and the Northern Territory.
Our vision is simple yet profound - to open doors to bigger and better opportunities for the First Nations community.
We firmly believe that success should know no bounds and that every individual should have access to a thriving, fulfilling career.
Wartu Engineering and Civil was founded with a singular mission: To create meaningful employment opportunities for Indigenous Australians whilst elevating industry standards in Civil Engineering.
We understand that true progress requires a mindset of collaboration, understanding, and mentorship and that’s why we are at the forefront in First Nations employment in the Civil Engineering industry.
Wartu is the Kaurna word for Wombat. Native to Australia, wombats are natural engineers, digging complex networks of burrows which are commonly used by other animals who seek shelter. Wombats have nourished Australia’s Indigenous communities for thousands of years providing a vital food source and warmth through the use of their fur.
Wartu Engineering and Civil aims to embody the Wombats strength, ability to provide sanctuary to fellow animals, and sustenance to Australia’s Indigenous people.
Wartu’s logo is a collaboration between artist Felicia Wilson and graphic designer Anna Maynard. The artwork tells the story of 5 people coming together at a yarning circle.
In First Nations culture, yarning circles are used to learn from a collective group, build respectful relationships and to preserve and pass on cultural knowledge.
Originally from Oodnadatta in the far north of South Australia, Felicia moved to Adelaide at 13 years old.
Drawing on techniques learned from her father, she creates locally inspired pieces that reflect a vibrant mix of traditional and contemporary dot painting and dreamtime stories.
Wartu acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we are based, the people of the Kaurna Nation and pay our respect to Elders past, present and emerging. We acknowledge their rich culture, celebrating the stories and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Elders of all communities who also work and live on this land.
