As global fuel prices surge amid devastating impacts on families and the development of a humanitarian crisis through conflict in the Middle East, many of us and our critical industries are feeling the pinch. 

In remote First Nations communities primarily reliant on diesel power stations, the steep price hikes are a reminder of a deeper, ongoing vulnerability. 

Australia’s clean energy transition is accelerating but First Nations participation and benefit continues to lag behind the pace and scale of change.

All Australian energy ministers today released the First Nations Clean Energy Strategy, honouring a commitment to put First Nations front and centre of the country’s clean energy transition.

Chris Croker shares his knowledge on economic negotiations and benefit sharing based on his experience as an investment partner primarily engaged in renewable projects specifically designed to improve the affordability and reliability of electricity in communities. Chris is also a steering group member of the First Nations Clean Energy Network.

Governments in the United States and Canada have already realised that establishing the right partnerships with First Nations in the clean energy transition is an investment decision.

On the eve of the May Federal Budget, it’s timely to consider where the government should make the best investment decisions.