About Us

Global Education Designs Pty Ltd (GED) is an Australian-owned international education consultancy with more than 25 years’ experience in the custom-design and delivery of quality study abroad programs for overseas universities, colleges and special interest groups.

The Company began operations in 1985, offering study abroad programs in Australia with a focus on field research and hands-on learning for undergraduate biology students. Since then, we have developed programs that encompass a broad range of academic disciplines and locations. We maintain our commitment to include opportunities for field-based study and practical learning experiences for all disciplines.

Based in Brisbane, Queensland, we are perfectly situated to assist overseas educational institutions, professional associations and special interest groups wanting to provide their students or members with rewarding opportunities for study, travel and personal development in the Australasian region.

We are aware that study abroad programs are far more than a formal academic experience in a foreign country; study abroad programs also offer opportunities to learn informally through meeting and interacting with local people and experiencing new perspectives. Throughout the custom-design process, we aim to maximise these opportunities by including a range of cultural and recreational activities as part of the overall program.

We value engagement with local communities and so do our groups.

Many groups get involved in regeneration or restoration projects at locations that they may visit. It’s the least we can do to better our environment and fosters responsible, environmentally aware and engaged learners.

If you belong to an organisation or institution wanting to establish your own study abroad program anywhere in Australia, New Zealand or the Pacific region, contact us.

Marta Hardeman

Director, Administrator

Marta has always been involved in education. She graduated from Burwood State College as a teacher, and then from the University of Queensland with a second Degree in Education. She taught in Townville and then at International schools in Indonesia. After working in California for several years, she returned to Australia to settle. She met Doug MacLennan, co-founded GED, and together they built GED to the company that it is now.

In her free time Marta enjoys caring for conservation land and gardening.

Natalka Hardeman

Program Coordinator

Nat graduated from James Cook University in Townsville with a degree in Cultural Anthropology. She worked on a live-aboard dive boat gaining experience with safety and shipboard procedures and working with groups of people. She commenced work with GED fifteen years ago in Logistics support and under Doug MacLennan’s tutelage, became a meticulous organizer before encompassing academic co-ordination and management.

Nat strives to ensure each program opens as many doors to learning as possible. She has a ‘can do’ attitude that makes each program special. When she isn’t working you will probably find her camping with her family.