A national initiative led by the University of Melbourne's Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology is working to inspire Indigenous, regional, rural and remote students to explore careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

This week, staff and students from the University of Melbourne, Monash and Murdoch Universities, alongside the Indigenous-run organisation Deadly Coders, will visit schools and communities in Northam, Western Australia.

The Return to Country program began last year and aims to remove barriers to higher education while promoting inclusive pathways into STEM.

Through storytelling and hands-on activities, the program introduces primary and secondary students to opportunities in engineering and information technology.

The initiative is led by Murawarri engineer and Associate Dean Indigenous, Joseph West.

He said the program aims to build a long-term pathway to increase Indigenous participation and leadership in engineering and IT.

"This national effort is needed to enhance Indigenous participation and achieve population parity in engineering and IT by building a strong, end-to-end pipeline - from sparking early interest in primary and secondary students, to cultivating future Indigenous academic and industry leaders," he said.

Associate Professor West said the program also seeks to incorporate Indigenous knowledge, improve cross-cultural understanding, and enhance community access to engineering solutions.

"It is wonderful to be partnering with Monash University and Deadly Coders for program delivery this week, and to have Murdoch University as the local University partner, who recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with us to create opportunities for aspiring Indigenous STEM professionals, working together in a combined effort," he said.

A highlight of the visit will be the Return to Country STEM Oration on Wednesday 23 July, delivered by Wadjak/Ballardong man, Professor Chris Lawrence at the Northam Recreation Centre.

Professor Lawrence will share his academic and professional journey, including his work establishing the National Indigenous Space Academy.

"I hope to inspire Indigenous people and show how education can change your life," Professor Lawrence said.

"Education has given me so many wonderful opportunities and life achievements. It empowered me and built my confidence. It opened so many doors and introduced me to so many people at different levels of their careers. I've met astronauts, Generals, ambassadors, and people from all walks of life."

The oration will be streamed live on Wednesday at 7:45pm AEST.

Registration details are available on the University of Melbourne website.