Renewable energy focus at summit

The central role First Nations people can play in achieving Australia’s decarbonisation goals was in the spotlight at the inaugural First Nations Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) Summit ‘23 held in Gladstone last month.

The summit brought together over 160 people from business, government and communities to identify how First Nations businesses can be part of the renewable energy transition.

FNCCI Chairman Matthew Cooke said the Summit was a critical step towards achieving meaningful Indigenous participation in the nation’s booming renewable energy industry.

Resources:

• For more information about First Australians Capital or to enquire about ways to support FAC, visit https:// firstaustralianscapital.org/

• To view FAC’s Strategy 2031: Radical Possibilities, visit https:// firstaustralianscapital.org/ radical-possibilities/

• To view the Indigenous First Impact Framework (IFIF) developed by FAC and Indigenous Impact, visit https:// firstaustralianscapital.org/ investors/indigenous_first_ impact_framework/

“As Australia enters this next phase of largescale economic development with a push to decarbonisation, we must act early to ensure government and major industry cement First Nations opportunities and shared prosperity from the outset,” Mr Cooke said.

“The transition to renewables presents a unique opportunity, outside of government funding of vital human and social services, to make great inroads to Close the Gap.

“By investing, mandating and accelerating First Nations participation and equity in economic development projects, we have a real opportunity to change lives.”

The two-day event was keynoted by inaugural Ambassador for First Nations People from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Justin Mohamed.

“Supporting the meaningful economic development and participation of First Nations peoples is one very important facet of my role as Ambassador for First Nations People,” Mr Mohamed said.