In an inspiring stride towards a more inclusive and sustainable future, the First Nations Clean Energy Network has launched a groundbreaking report aimed at enhancing the inclusion of First Nations people in the clean energy workforce. This report, titled Powering First Nations Jobs in Clean Energy, highlights the significant opportunities for increasing First Nations employment, particularly in Renewable Energy Zones (REZs), as Australia transitions to a net-zero economy.
Unlocking Potential: First Nations in the Clean Energy Workforce
The report’s findings underscore the untapped potential of First Nations communities in contributing to Australia’s clean energy goals. With the Federal Government’s target of achieving 82 percent renewable energy generation by 2030, there is a pressing need for more skilled workers in the clean energy sector. The report advocates for increasing First Nations employment targets in REZs from 1.5 percent to five percent, and even up to ten percent in some regions.
Strategic Recommendations for a Sustainable Future
The First Nations Clean Energy Network has laid out 12 key recommendations across climate, energy, and industry policy. These recommendations are designed to be actionable by federal and state/territory governments, industry stakeholders, and training organizations. Here are some of the standout suggestions:
- Incorporate First Nations employment and training targets into the Capacity Investment Scheme.
- Develop a coordinated industry program for First Nations apprentices in wind farm maintenance.
- Integrate First Nations employment and training initiatives into housing retrofit, diesel replacement, and micro-grid programs.
- Launch ‘Career Trackers for Clean Energy’ to foster industry commitments to First Nations cadetships.
- Create pathways to clean energy careers for First Nations school students.
- Facilitate school-to-VET transitions with traineeships and apprenticeships.
- Engage First Nations communities through Regional University Hubs.
- Establish pre-employment programs for entry-level jobs in solar farms.
- Fund group training focused on REZs and First Nations housing retrofits.
- Support industry programs to meet employment and training targets.
- Build the capacity of First Nations organizations, networks, and businesses.
- Enhance cultural competence within the renewable energy sector.
Realizing the Vision: The Path Forward
The report’s authors, including Dr. Chris Briggs from the UTS Institute for Sustainable Futures and Ruby Heard, founder of Alinga Energy Consulting, emphasize that the current participation of First Nations Australians in the clean energy sector is low. However, they identify a significant opportunity within REZs, where the First Nations population share is notably higher than the national average. With over 50 percent of First Nations residents in REZs being 19 years or younger, there is a vast pool of early career candidates ready to contribute to the clean energy workforce.
Dr. Briggs highlights the importance of combining supply and demand measures to ensure a steady pipeline of skilled workers. Supply measures alone often lead to training without job placements, while demand measures without skilled workers fall short. Therefore, a balanced approach is essential to achieve meaningful employment outcomes.
Ruby Heard adds that investing in quality, regionally-based Registered Training Organizations and TAFEs is crucial. These institutions must provide culturally appropriate training and support to help First Nations people upskill for the clean energy sector. She also calls for the clean energy industry to be culturally aware, offer competitive salaries, and establish training pathways that can compete with the mining sector.
A Collaborative Effort for Lasting Impact
Karrina Nolan, Co-Chair of the First Nations Clean Energy Network, stresses that this report should be the final call for action on First Nations employment in the clean energy sector. She points out that while there is ambition, previous efforts have lacked the necessary impact. By leveraging the 12 recommendations in the report and focusing on regional energy projects negotiated with Traditional Owners, there is a real opportunity to make significant progress.
The Australian government’s recent budget allocations, including the $44.4 million Energy Industry Jobs Plan and $134.2 million for skills and employment support, provide a solid foundation for this initiative. By dedicating a portion of these funds to First Nations employment targets, we can build a future where First Nations communities play a central role in the clean energy transition.
Conclusion: A Call to Action for CEOs and Industry Leaders
For CEOs and leaders of large multinational firms, this report presents an opportunity to be part of a transformative movement. By supporting the inclusion of First Nations people in the clean energy workforce, businesses can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future while also addressing the urgent need for skilled workers in the renewable energy sector.
To read the full report and explore how you can get involved, visit the First Nations Clean Energy Network’s website. Together, we can power a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for educational purposes only. For detailed information and specific guidance, please refer to the official website of the First Nations Clean Energy Network.
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