The Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation have published a comprehensive guide to assist First Nations understand, participate, and lead in the renewables and clean energy sector.

Energy security, disconnections, and community engagement on energy project development were the number one themes at the Network's inaugural First Nations Clean Energy Gathering in South Australia.

Australia now has 18 and counting First Nations clean energy equity partnerships with developers.

Significant renewable energy resources will be needed to power Australia’s energy transition, all of which need consent from Traditional Owners.

Collaboration and equitable partnerships with First Nations are critical to ensuring a clean energy transition which is just and prioritises community benefits. Access to finance, capacity building and an enabling policy environment will be key to making this a reality.

It is estimated that 43% of all clean energy infrastructure required to get Australia to net zero emissions will be sited on land under the care or control of First Nations.

First Nations communities will be significantly impacted by, and critical to, decarbonisation. The Indigenous Estate should be accessed by agreement with First Nations communities.

First Nations ownership and equity models are essential, alongside genuine partnerships that have deep levels of trust, reconciliation efforts, and a sense of community. Benefit-sharing must start early (before impacts are felt), to build and sustain trust, and maintain momentum.

Best practice frameworks for clean energy projects such as, First Nations Better Practice Community Engagement and the First Nations Clean Energy Network, should be used across all projects impacting the Indigenous Estate. Factors including a commitment to cultural heritage and land stewardship, protecting Country, sharing economic and social benefits through strategic partnerships, and ensuring cultural competency.

This Mobilisation Report was put together by Net Zero Australia, in partnership with The University of Melbourne, The University of Queensland, Princeton University and NOUS, and was published in July 2023.

Read the report here

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.