Related Post
Aboriginal partnerships in Western Australia’s energy transition
EXCLUSIVE
First Nations partnerships are driving the future of energy and as Western Australia’s transition accelerates, the opportunity to do the same and unlock lasting social, cultural, and economic benefits is too big to ignore.
Energy Exchange Australia, formerly AOG Energy, will host a dedicated panel discussion featuring industry leaders, including Lawford Benning, Executive Chair of MG Corporation.
MG Corporation is one of three Aboriginal organisations involved in a groundbreaking First Nations-led clean energy initiative, focused on green hydrogen and green ammonia exports.
The panel will dive into how Aboriginal partnerships can shape the future of renewables, including resource management, and economic development. By combining cultural knowledge, strategic collaboration, and innovation, these partnerships create lasting benefits, challenging industry to recognise and unlock their full potential.
In countries like Canada, Indigenous-led energy partnerships are proving their value, with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit entities now owning or benefiting from nearly 20 per cent of the country’s electricity-generating infrastructure, most of it renewable.
Through benefit-sharing models and strong partnerships, these communities are driving a major shift in the clean energy sector.
Lawford Benning, Executive Chair of MG Corporation believes that Western Australia is on track to follow a similar path, with Aboriginal businesses and leaders well-positioned to shape the State’s energy future through investment, collaboration, and innovation.
“Western Australia’s energy transition presents a unique opportunity for industry and Aboriginal communities to work together as true partners in shaping a cleaner, more sustainable future,” he said.
“To achieve this, we need to do things differently—ensuring Aboriginal businesses and leadership are not just participants but equal partners in this transition. By fostering genuine collaboration, we can drive innovation, investment, and long-term economic benefits, creating lasting social, economic, and environmental value for generations to come.”
Partnering with Aboriginal businesses in energy projects isn’t just about inclusion, it’s about unlocking real opportunities through the creation of jobs, strengthening communities, and improve project outcomes, with Aboriginal-owned businesses ten times more likely to employ Aboriginal people.
The impact goes beyond employment, with many reinvesting in scholarships, workforce training, and essential community services, paving the way for long-term sustainability and growth.
The Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Industry (JTSI) is committed to building a stronger and more diverse Western Australian economy by supporting and advancing Aboriginal businesses and workforce participation.
As part of this effort, JTSI will host the Aboriginal Business Pavilion at Energy Exchange Australia, providing a platform for 12 Aboriginal-owned businesses across construction, marketing, solar, and off-grid systems to showcase their expertise and foster industry collaboration.
This dedicated space invites attendees to connect, explore partnerships, and see how Aboriginal enterprises can drive WA’s clean energy transition.
Energy Exchange Australia will run from 11-13 March at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Whether you’re looking to stay ahead of industry developments, connect with key players, or take part in discussions that will shape the next decade, EXA is the place to be.
Don’t miss out—be part of this industry-leading event. Register now at https://exaexpo.com.au/ and join us in shaping the future of energy.
