Guide helps Aboriginal groups negotiate renewable energy deals

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 14 Nov, 22:01 · Archive

A new guide is helping Native Title holders in South Australia negotiate large-scale renewable energy projects on their land. The Great Matters Guide, developed by Kokatha/Wirangu man Dr John Binda Reid, sets criteria for respectful, two-way relationship-building between energy companies and Aboriginal communities. It was inspired by South Australia's new Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Act, legislation developed through 18 months of discussions with 26 native title holders.

Six renewable projects are being proposed across South Australian native title land. Four projects with a combined capacity of 13 GW were selected by the South Australian government to build a green energy hub in the Whyalla region, while two companies have been shortlisted in the Gawler Ranges, covering 5,200 square kilometres of native title land. Both areas were released for developers in January.

Dr Reid, from the Gawler Ranges Aboriginal Corporation and Adelaide University, said the legislation and guide allow Aboriginal people to 'mandate and enforce protection of environment and cultural heritage'. He emphasised the importance of protecting sacred waterholes, which he described as the 'university of the bush', and ensuring companies understand the significance of local ecosystems. 'We didn't want to be recolonised in the same way,' he said, referencing damage caused by previous pastoralism.

How it is being reported

• Guide spearheads native title renewable negotiationsA new guide is helping empower Native Title holders negotiate renewable energy projects as companies prepare to lodge large-scale development plans.The West Australian · 14 Nov, 21:31
• Guide spearheads native title renewable negotiationsA new guide is helping empower Native Title holders negotiate renewable energy projects as companies prepare to lodge large-scale development plans.Perth Now · 14 Nov, 21:31

In this story: Dr John Binda Reid · South Australia · Gawler Ranges · Whyalla · Gawler Ranges Aboriginal Corporation · Adelaide University

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