The Andrews Labor Government is supporting Traditional Owners’ self-determination by putting renewable energy projects directly in the hands of Aboriginal community groups across Victoria.

Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Lily D’Ambrosio and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gabrielle Williams today announced eight recipients will receive a share of $1.1 million in funding to empower Traditional Owner Corporations to determine how they want to be part of Victoria’s renewable energy boom.

Traditional Owner Corporations have developed plans to harness Victoria’s renewable energy transformation in their local community by installing solar panels, developing feasibility studies and undertaking businesses cases for future community-owned renewable energy generation to be delivered during 2021-2022.

The program is part of the Government’s commitment to support Aboriginal participation and adoption of new energy technologies, boost skills and help fuel a clean energy driven economic recovery.

The Government acknowledges the right to self-determination and recognises that only when Aboriginal people are central to the decision-making processes that affect their lives, will sustained and long-term changes in wellbeing and the health of Country be achieved.

The successful recipients are: Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation, Barengi Gadjin Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, Wurundjeri Land & Compensation Cultural Heritage Council Aboriginal Corporation, First People of Millewa-Mallee Aboriginal Corporation, Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation, Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation, Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation and, Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation.

For more information on the program visit: energy.vic.gov.au/renewable-energy/community-energy

Quote attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“This program means that Aboriginal communities can harness renewable energy, save money on bills and help meet our goal of halving the state’s emissions by 2030.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gabrielle Williams

“These renewable energy projects are all about empowering Traditional Owners and supporting self-determination.”

Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp

“This will see local Traditional Owner groups benefiting directly from Victoria’s boom in renewable energy.”