The 23rd edition of the Africa Down Under (ADU) mining conference will be held from 3-5 September 2025 at the Pan Pacific Hotel in Perth, Australia.

ADU is the premier forum for fostering Australian-African business and government relations, offering a dynamic mix of live presentations, face-to-face meetings, and networking opportunities. Initially launched to shine the spotlight Australia's interests in African mining and energy, ADU has evolved into the largest African-focused mining event outside the continent. This growth is evident in the growing number of high-profile participants attending the annual 3-day gathering.

Building connections between Australia and Africa

Beyond its role in strengthening bilateral relations, ADU serves as the cornerstone of Africa Week – a week-long celebration of the expanding business, social, and cultural ties between Australia and Africa. Africa Week features a diverse programme of satellite events, including sessions on research, education, infrastructure, sustainable development, capacity building, energy, film, and the arts.

Nedbank CIB at ADU 2025

Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking is proud to once again sponsor ADU, building on the momentum and success we've achieved in the region. Our team will use this platform to engage with mining companies, investors, African government representatives and advisers – strengthening mining finance and cross-continental collaboration.

The expert in mining finance

A definitive feasibility study (“DFS”) is not ‘definitive’ unless it contains a funding plan.  Very often mining companies spend significant amounts of time and capital preparing and releasing a DFS.  A DFS is often seen as a milestone achievement of years’ of intense preparatory work towards the development of a mining project, which becomes a catalyst for a capital raise.  However, it would be incorrect to label a DFS as ‘definitive’ if it lacks a detailed funding plan.  Attempting a funding plan after a DFS is released is often too late, as the funding plan may be impacted by the procurement of capital goods and services for construction work, or vice-versa. Alternatively, retro-fitting a funding plan may result in the company having to reopen its DFS, specifically as it relates to procurement of capital goods and services.

Nedbank CIB strongly recommends a proper DFS should always include a funding plan.  This will signal to investors and stakeholders that the company’s project is development-ready. This will save time and costs and position mining companies favourably when transitioning into development.       

Meet our Mining and Critical Minerals  team

Join Cathy Nader, Principal of Mining and Resources at Nedbank CIB, at Africa Down Under 2025. As a key voice in mining finance, she’ll share insights into how Nedbank CIB supports Australian mining firms in navigating cross-border growth.

With a mandate that includes Australian-based mining companies, our team brings deep expertise in mining finance, critical minerals, and corporate advisory. Join us for meaningful conversations on sustainable development and sector expansion across continents.