Register now for Australia's only First Nations-led annual national event, the First Nations Clean Energy Symposium.
The First Nations Clean Energy Network, with support from the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation (ILSC), is bringing together First Nations communities, Traditional Owners, leaders and communities with investors, policy makers, industry and Government for two days of collaborative action on Wadawurrung Country, Djilang (Geelong, Victoria).
From changing the narrative to driving equity and ownership in major projects, First Nations communities are building power in Australia's renewable energy transition. Communities have been leading the way, breaking down barriers, and centering our people as rights holders and partners. We know what's needed, and we're getting it done.
We will reflect on some of the amazing work being led by our communities both here and internationally, and take action on what's next.
SYMPOSIUM DETAILS
- Tuesday 18 August: Welcome Reception
- Wednesday 19 & Thursday 20 August: Symposium Program
- Venue: Nyaal Banyul Convention & Events Centre

SYMPOSIUM PROGRAM
This year's program is built around four streams, each digging into what it takes to deliver real outcomes for our communities, our Country and future generations:
POWERING HOMES AND PEOPLE
- Affordable, reliable and clean power is fundamental to healthy homes, strong communities and people’s ability to live well. From rooftop solar on all homes, batteries and energy upgrades to stand-alone systems and remote microgrids, this theme is about making sure no one is left behind.
POWERING COMMUNITIES AND COUNTRY
- Across the country, First Nations communities are not waiting for others to solve these problems - we are getting organised, building solutions and shaping clean energy on our own terms. This theme focuses on community-owned projects, local energy enterprises and governance models that build community control, local jobs, capability and benefits that stay on Country and also can sustain Country for generations to come.
POWERING OUR ECONOMY
- Clean energy is one of the biggest economic opportunities of our lifetime, but it must not repeat the mistakes of the past. This theme is about moving beyond benefit-sharing to genuine ownership, equity, revenue and strategic control, so First Nations people are backed as proponents, partners and owners. We will also tackle the capital gaps and access to the right kinds of finance that could enable project builds and different forms of ownership.
POWERING THE TRANSITION
- A just transition will not happen through projects alone - it needs the right policy, finance, infrastructure and institutions to make First Nations leadership possible from the start. This theme focuses on policy reform, investment architecture, transmission planning and negotiation support needed to change what is expected, what is possible, and who benefits.
A full program outline is coming soon.
This is a First Nations-led space. Driven by us, grounded in self-determination, partnership, respect, and backing our communities to lead the solutions that care for Country and power the future on our terms.
For any queries regarding the Symposium, please reach out to [email protected].