More than 50 Newcastle residents have completed the City of Newcastle’s first Empowering Climate Champions program, gaining skills needed to lead local projects focused on renewable energy, electrification, and energy efficiency.
Over six weeks, participants worked with experts from the Climate Council, Community Power Agency and BehaviourWorks Australia. The program, which offers a United Nations-certified accreditation, aimed to help people turn their concerns about climate change into practical, community-led action.
Graduates now plan to deliver their own initiatives across the city, forming part of Newcastle’s broader efforts to reach net zero emissions by 2040. CEO of City of Newcastle Jeremy Bath said the strong uptake shows a clear appetite for hands-on climate action in the region.
Inspired by the work of Rewiring Australia and its co-founder Dr Saul Griffiths, the program grew out of the popular Empowering Newcastle event series, which attracted more than 1,500 people in 2024. It now forms part of the city’s Environment Strategy – a 10-year roadmap that supports action on climate change, nature-based solutions and the circular economy.
The diverse group of participants included people from a wide range of backgrounds, all motivated by a shared commitment to creating a more sustainable Newcastle.
Marnie Kikken, City of Newcastle’s Executive Manager Environment and Sustainability, said the program not only built knowledge but also supported the confidence needed to start taking action at a local level.
“It has been inspiring to see such a diverse mix of participants from across Newcastle, all bringing different perspectives but sharing a common goal to be empowered to take action,” Ms Kikken said.
For many, the course helped turn anxiety about climate change into a plan. Participant Benjamin Julien is just one example of the training prompting an idea to become action. Julien is working on a project to bring portable solar to strata housing, and said the experience gave him new clarity on how to design and deliver effective ideas.
“I’m excited to apply the insights I’ve gained from the program for a project focused on transportable solar solutions for strata communities,” Mr Julien said.
With more rounds of training planned, the program is set to play an important part in Newcastle’s clean energy transition—one that aims to put the tools in the hands of everyday people and support them to lead the change from within their own communities.
