About Us
Proud Quandamooka, Butchulla and Githabul Man, Ramone Close is an entrepreneur, visionary and connector whose deep passion is to connect cultures and people to drive outcomes for communities.
At Planzz Australia, we are more than just a First Nations Community Economic Development Organisation—we are a catalyst for change, empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to navigate complex challenges and seize new opportunities for growth and prosperity. Our vision is to drive positive transformation by fostering economic independence, cultural integrity, and lasting impact through our diverse programs and partnerships.
As leaders in this space, we understand that today's landscape is rapidly evolving. Now, more than ever, First Nations leaders face complex, interconnected challenges that affect every facet of their businesses and communities. The old models of strategy—linear transformation processes—no longer suffice. Success in this environment demands a cultured human-centric approach to leadership, one that embraces both reimagination and optimisation in equal measure. By focusing on transformative change, even in the face of adversity, organisations can emerge stronger and more resilient.
Our Approach
At Planzz Australia, we recognise that economic development is not just about the transaction; it’s about the relationships, the culture, and the human connections that shape our future. Our initiatives are driven by the belief that the key to sustainable success lies in the integration of culture, integrity, relationships, and technology. These values guide our approach as we work alongside First Nations communities and businesses to build pathways to economic empowerment, social equity, and cultural preservation.
We know that modern leadership requires agility, innovation, and the ability to leverage the full potential of emerging technologies. In an environment where CEO and board tenures are shorter than ever, and the pressure for rapid results is high, Planzz Australia is committed to helping our partners succeed in both the short term and the long term. Our programs are designed not just to address immediate needs, but to prepare First Nations businesses and organisations for sustained growth, leveraging data, artificial intelligence (AI), and tech-enabled decision-making to make value-driven, culturally informed choices.
Our Services and Programs
Planzz Australia offers a suite of cutting-edge initiatives aimed at driving economic development, promoting cultural heritage, and enhancing the long-term sustainability of First Nations businesses.
Commercial First Nations Product Brands
We help create brands and incubate business startups. We empower First Nations entrepreneurs by connecting them with high-profile, commercial opportunities. This partnership ensures the development of high-quality, culturally significant products that enhance industry standards and elevate the presence of First Nations businesses.
WePlenty First Nations Marketplace
Our online marketplace, WePlenty, is an innovative platform dedicated to building a First Nations circular economy through buying and selling everyday products. By facilitating the exchange of goods, services, and knowledge, we aim to create an ecosystem that not only supports the growth of First Nations businesses but also drives environmental sustainability and social impact.
Walkabout Your Business Program
Developed by Ambrose Solutions, this program offers First Nations business leaders the tools to reimagine their strategies and navigate the complexities of modern enterprise. Through workshops and advisory services, we help businesses and communities understand their current state, identify growth opportunities, and optimise their operations for long-term success.
Think About Your Decision Governance Program
ThinkAbout Your Decision is a program designed to deliver essential governance education that is cost-effective, accessible, easily understood and culturally sensitive regardless of a board member's location, education level, or financial status.
The Container Pop-Up Village
An innovative project designed to create mobile, dynamic community hubs that bring together First Nations businesses, cultural initiatives, and public services. The Container Pop-Up Village provides a flexible, cost-effective solution for engaging communities while promoting cultural exchange and business development.
Advisory & Reconciliation Action Plans (RAPs)
We offer expert advisory services to organisations seeking to build more inclusive, respectful, and culturally safe workplaces. Through the development and implementation of Reconciliation Action Plans (RAPs), we help businesses foster meaningful, long-term relationships with First Nations communities and contribute to reconciliation efforts across Australia.
Why work with Planzz Australia?
Cultural Integrity, Our initiatives are grounded in the belief that true transformation occurs when we respect and honour cultural heritage while driving business success.
Adaptability and Innovation, We embrace the power of technology to drive change and are committed to helping First Nations communities use data, AI, and digital tools to optimise their strategies and make informed decisions.
Relationship-Driven Success, At the heart of everything we do is a deep respect for relationships. We build long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships that are rooted in trust and shared values.
Sustainability for the Long-Term, Our focus is not just on short-term growth but on creating lasting, sustainable outcomes that will empower First Nations businesses for generations to come.
At Planzz Australia, we understand that the journey toward transformation is not always linear, but with the right tools, support, and vision, we can help First Nations communities and organisations not only navigate change but thrive in it. By combining the best of technology, culture, and human-centric leadership, we aim to build a stronger, more inclusive future for all.
Our Team
Ramone Close, CEO
Founder chief visionary, Ramone is the driving force behind the company. He loves building relationships and connecting people to solutions. Ramone is a social entrepreneur that likes to build capability and capacity in communities through education and opportunities.
Dilan Rajapaksha, CTO
Co-Founder Dilan is a serial entrepreneur who has a passion for building SME's and uplifting communities economically. Dilan is our Gap Analyst and subject matter .
Kim Van-Look, Diversity & Inclusion
Our Diversity & Inclusion subject matter expert Kim, has vast experience in the corporate landscape operationally and administratively. Kim's wealth of experience and knowledge complements her ability to merge the world of operations, corporate governance with Diversity & Inclusion.
Jedess Hudson, Visual Artist
Jedess has a passion and uncanny ability to weave the tapestry of Culture and Business together to create opportunities for First Nation communities. As a strong Yindinji woman, Jedess also guides our artistic vision through our business practices.