Western Australia's burgeoning First Nations renewables industry will be showcased at the upcoming Energy Exchange Australia conference in Boorloo (Perth).
In a first of its kind, the three-day conference held at the Perth Convention Centre from March 11, will host a panel featuring Indigenous leaders, including MG Corporation's executive chair Lawford Benning.
MG Corporation, Kununurra's main native title organisation, represents Miriwoong and Gajirrabeng people. It is one of three corporations involved in a First Nations-led clean energy initiative focused on green hydrogen and green ammonia exports.
The panel will explore how Aboriginal partnerships can play a critical role in the renewables sector, including resource management, and economic development.
The Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation will once again host the Aboriginal Business Pavilion at Energy Exchange Australia (EXA), formerly AOG Energy.
The pavilion will house 12 Aboriginal-owned companies to showcase their products, technologies, innovations, and services to the domestic and international energy markets.
Mr Benning said Western Australia was on track to follow Canada's lead where First Nations-led partnerships now account for 20 per cent of the country's electricity-generating infrastructure, most of it renewable.
The well-known Indigenous advocate said through benefit-sharing models and strong partnerships, First Nations businesses and leaders could shape Western Australia'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," Mr Benning 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."
Mr Benning said partnering with First Nations businesses in energy projects wasn't just about inclusion, it would also empower Aboriginal communities.
He said these impacts went beyond jobs, with many Indigenous businesses reinvesting in scholarships, workforce training, and community services, which paved the way for long-term sustainability and growth.
EXA offers free access to a world-class program covering renewables, hydrogen, carbon capture, decommissioning, and the latest energy innovations. It also allows attendees to connect, inspire, and exchange ideas to shape the future of energy.
More information including how to register is online at https://exaexpo.com.au/.