Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people interested in how their communities can participate in and benefit from clean energy projects have until 18 September to apply for a national training program being held in Newcastle next month.
The First Nations Clean Energy Network will bring its fourth PowerMakers program to Mulubinba (Newcastle) from 27 to 29 October, with participants learning about clean energy projects, community energy planning, financing and ownership models, business opportunities and negotiation.
The program is designed by and for First Nations people and does not require applicants to already have expertise in the energy sector.
From understanding projects to negotiating outcomes
PowerMakers is aimed at people who want to better understand what clean energy development could mean for their communities, including where renewable energy projects are proposed on Country.
Training will cover how clean energy projects are developed, community energy planning, business and economic opportunities, project financing and ownership models, negotiation and advocacy, and cultural governance and First Nations leadership.
The First Nations Clean Energy Network says the program is intended to give participants practical knowledge and skills that can be taken back to their communities.
The 2026 program will include First Nations leaders and industry experts from Australia and Canada, while bringing together participants from across Australia.
Newcastle to host fourth PowerMakers
The Newcastle program will be the fourth PowerMakers intake since the initiative began in 2023.
Almost 100 First Nations leaders have completed PowerMakers over that period and joined the Network’s national alumni community.
This year’s program comes to Newcastle as clean energy projects continue to raise questions for First Nations communities about participation, ownership and the benefits that can flow from development on Country.
In its latest call for applications, the Network identified renewable energy projects proposed on Country, community solar and batteries, co-ownership, jobs, business opportunities and negotiating outcomes from clean energy projects as some of the issues prospective participants may be seeking to understand.
Applications close 18 September
PowerMakers is open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members of the First Nations Clean Energy Network, with membership available free of charge.
Previous PowerMakers participants cannot apply for the 2026 program.
The Expression of Interest process states that preference will be given to people who can attend the full program from 27 to 29 October and are willing to share what they learn. Places are limited and submitting an application does not guarantee participation.
Expressions of interest close on 18 September 2026.
