Australia is on the cusp of a once-in-a-generation transformation, as our energy systems shift to clean, renewable forms of power. First Nations peoples, the original custodians of this land, must be central to – and benefit from – this transition.

What does it look like when First Nations groups call the shots?

Through designing early engagement and negotiation protocols for government and industry to follow, this session explores what different nations are doing to flip the narrative and set the standard.

SPEAKERS: Daniel Miller, Barengi Gadjin, Daryle Rigney, Jason Bilney, Sonja Dare, Heidi Norman (Facilitator)

The challenge is not missing the opportunity and letting Australia’s rapid energy transition be another wave of dispossession for First Nations people.

The impacts of extreme heat, flooding, cyclones and drought is adding to the health and economic pressures and energy insecurity experienced by First Nations families and communities.

Clean renewable energy is a huge opportunity and if done right, may address many of these issues.

This session asks, how can we self-determine and secure our energy future in a changing climate?

SPEAKERS: Heidi Norman, Leslie Schultz, Vanessa Napaltjarri Davis, Vonda Moar Malone, Graeme Gardner (Facilitator)

The First Nations Clean Energy Symposium in Adelaide gave insight on how clean energy can both support First Nations communities and be informed by Indigenous perspectives.

Australia’s plentiful solar and wind resources and proximity to Asia means it can become a renewable energy superpower. But as the renewable energy rollout continues, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people must benefit.

The energy transformation in New South Wales has included a range of initiatives for First Nations people.