They named it Jackadder International.

Jackadder is the name of an attractive lake near their original home in Western Australia – and paying tribute to it aligned with their love of the environment.

And the International? “Well, that was aspirational,” says Lou.

Aspirational or not, the name now fits – Jackadder has enjoyed spectacular growth and is now a $10 million-a-year company with 70 staff, 45 in Darwin, 20 across Australia, three in New Zealand and a couple in Britain.

Its headquarters is in the Charles Darwin Centre and it has offices in Sydney, Hobart and Adelaide with a new office opening in Perth.

Jackadder was named ICT Business of the Year at the prestigious NT Territory Digital Excellence Awards in November.

“We are very lucky to have such a wonderful team working for us and the award is recognition of their fantastic efforts over many years,” says Lou.

The company’s growth has been built on the most effective combination in business – a skilled, highly-motivated team providing excellent, innovative service at a reasonable price.

Lou, who was a director on the national board of the Australian Information Industry Association, managed an international IT consulting company in Darwin from 1993-98.

He returned to the Territory’s capital in 2016 while studying for his master’s degree in tropical environmental management with Charles Darwin University – and was asked to carry out a review of a major NT Government computer project.

More than 20 reviews followed – and Jackadder was on its way to becoming one of Australia’s most successful mid-level IT firms.

“I love Darwin and the Territory environment,” Lou says. “We set up our business here because we were excited about the opportunities and thought we could contribute to the development of the Territory.” 

Jackadder has built up a team of dedicated consultants – with more than 30 percent growth in the past 18 months. Half of the team are women, double the industry average in Australia, and originating from more than 20 countries, leading the way in diversity and inclusion. 

Jackadder also invests in local talent, bringing on 22 ICT graduates from CDU in the past three years, many of whom have continued to grow within the Jackadder “family”. 

“We’ve never had trouble recruiting and retaining good people,” says Lou. 

“We take care of our people, and they take care of us. Most of our team comes through staff and client referrals and it’s somewhere people want to work.” 

Jackadder has secured numerous contracts across government, commercial and not-for-profit sectors, and are eager to expand into the construction, defence and resource industries. 

Jackadder’s global standing is highlighted by its recognition as a silver partner of monday.com, the renowned work management platform empowering everyone from sole traders to multinationals to do business better. 

Recently, Jackadder demonstrated its expertise by winning a major bid to deliver a monday CRM solution for a leading Territory not-for-profit. This success showcases Jackadder’s ability to deliver globally recognised solutions with the convenience of a local partner right at your doorstep. 

The firm prides itself in providing personalised, client-focused advice and services, which add value to a client’s business and support the success of projects. 

With this unique expertise, Jackadder works closely with clients to understand their needs and deliver tailored solutions that go beyond traditional consulting. 

“We offer independent advice and assurance to improve the delivery and success of digital programs and projects,” says Lou. “Our focus is on identifying areas for improvement early, so we can help clients stay on track. 

“We know every organisation is unique, so we tailor all our services to suit what’s needed rather than sticking to a one-size-fits-all methodology. 

“Our strength is delivering innovative solutions that align with our clients’ goals. Whether it’s a government agency, a local business or a not-for-profit, we’re dedicated to providing services that add real value.” 

Jackadder likes to give back to the community by supporting good causes. 

The firm is proud to support the NT community and economy, backing local initiatives such as the Digital Excellence Awards, GovHack 2024, ICT Code Fair and Science Week Awards. 

As the first sponsor of the Women in STEM Expo at the No Woman Left Behind Conference, Jackadder champions innovation and empowers women to pursue careers in technology and STEM. 

Jackadder’s success is defined by its investment in people, community, and innovative digital services and solutions that make a difference. 

Dr Carla Eisemberg, senior lecturer in STEM pathways at Charles Darwin University, says: “I have seen first-hand how Jackadder International contributes to the betterment of the Territory’s community, industry and economic development. 

“Their collaborative approach, commitment to community, and focus on building a sustainable and diverse technological workforce have made a meaningful difference. 

“They are a key player in shaping a more innovative and prosperous future for the Territory.” 

And Amelia Nuku, chief executive of the Industry Skills Advisory Council NT, says: “ISACNT have been working with Jackadder International on a major project. Throughout the project, the team at Jackadder International has demonstrated a high level of technical expertise, professionalism and a level of service that goes above and beyond our expectations with a very contextualised and client focus service delivery model.” 

CONTACT 

Jackadder International 

Level 16, Charles Darwin Centre 

08 8963 5647 

info@jackadder.international 

jackadder.international