A First Nations-led gathering on Dja Dja Wurrung djandak (Country) today will share deep learnings on negotiation strategies, getting strong agreements, and the risks and benefits of pursuing equity participation and co-ownership in clean energy project development in Victoria.

The Victoria First Nations Clean Energy Gathering hosted by the First Nations Clean Energy Network is being held at Larnangurrak, the Dja Dja Wurrung Corporate and Community Centre, Bendigo.

The Gathering is bringing together First Nations groups across Victoria to unpack equity agreements in renewable energy projects and current policy issues impacting clean energy development and First Nations participation on lands and waters.

Participants will dive into community energy planning, renewable energy project development, and the nuts and bolts of benefit-sharing and equity participation. And First Nations equity owners will deliver a masterclass on negotiating benefits in clean energy for First Nations communities. 

With clean energy policy updates and investment increasing to meet the State’s ambitious climate and energy targets of net zero emissions by 2045 and 95% renewable energy by 2035, First People’s equity participation and co-ownership is more crucial than ever to ensure rights and interests are aligned with sustainably developed projects for generations to come as project owners, business owners, employees, community leaders and Traditional Owners.

Following a Welcome to Country with Dja Dja Wurrung Elder Aunty Peta Hudson, speakers confirmed include Wadawurrung Elder Uncle Norm McPherson; Jason Bilney, a Director of Barngarla Determination Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC in South Australia; Gavin Brown, a Director of Wambal Bila in New South Wales which has an equity stake in the Bulabul Battery project; Chris Considine, Renewable Energy Manager with DJAARA; and Jarrod Troutbeck, Renewable Energy Manager with Barengi Gadjin; among others.