Australian of the Year

Proud Kamilaroi man Andrew Plastow is a visionary and courageous educator who has boldly re-envisaged learning, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. 

As principal of Alberton Primary School from 2004 to 2019, Andrew transformed the struggling school into a centre of excellence. Then, when pressed to align the school with a universal teaching approach, Andrew instead worked for 18 months to establish Ngutu College, an independent K–12 school on Kaurna Country in Woodville North. 

Since 2021, Ngutu has offered innovative learning rooted in context and community. Over 300 students are enrolled from kindergarten to year 12, with 50% coming from Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander backgrounds.  

Ngutu places Aboriginal knowledge at the heart of the curriculum, with students showcasing their work in performances and exhibitions that build community connection and local pride. 

Andrew has set new standards in child-centred, culturally informed and equitable learning – transforming the lives of children, their families and communities.