Regional Queensland communities are set to benefit from a ground-breaking new initiative aimed at strengthening relationships between the renewable energy industry and the regions where projects are being developed.
The Queensland Renewable Energy Council (QREC), in partnership with rural engagement specialists Engaged Outcomes, has launched RegionalConnect—a first-of-its-kind training program designed to equip industry practitioners with the skills and insights needed to engage meaningfully with local communities, and tailor their engagement to the unique needs and expectations of regional Queensland’s diverse communities.
Speaking at the launch event in Brisbane today, QREC Chief Executive Officer, Ms Katie-Anne Mulder said the training program has been developed to help Queensland’s renewable energy sector grow alongside the local communities in which they plan to operate.
“Building trust and meaningful relationships through effective community engagement is paramount to the success of renewable energy projects,” Ms Mulder said.
“This training is another important initiative that QREC is leading on behalf of its members to ensure our industry has the strongest possible partnerships with landholders and communities in regional Queensland.”
“The training will focus on how to effectively engage in regional Queensland, with each region so diverse, we need to understand what is important to each region, how they want to be engaged and what they are looking for from developers.”
“By delivering this training on the ground, in regional towns, we are creating opportunities for practitioners to gain hands-on experience and understanding of the local context.”
Engaged Outcomes Managing Director, Ms Wendy Agar said the program will be delivered in the regions across Queensland, offering a tailored curriculum that incorporates lessons learned from other industries.
“With renewable energy projects rapidly expanding in these areas, it is essential that industry leaders understand the importance of tailored, community-focused engagement,” Ms Agar said.
“RegionalConnect aims to enhance practitioners’ technical knowledge, particularly in community consultation and project development, empowering them to apply their expertise in ways that are effective and respectful of local concerns.
“This partnership with QREC is an exciting opportunity to bring our expertise in regional engagement into the renewable energy sector.”
Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) Chief Executive Officer, Jo Sheppard said the RegionalConnect program will provide renewable energy developers the opportunity to better understand the perspectives of farmers and regional communities.
“Meaningful and respectful engagement with local communities, especially farmers who are commonly the landholders of renewable energy projects, is crucial,” Ms Sheppard said.
“The RegionalConnect program provides a valuable platform to educate and build the capacity for renewable developers to engage with reginal communities in a more informed way.”
About QREC
QREC collaborates with industry, communities, and all levels of government to drive the growth of Queensland’s renewable energy sector. As Queensland’s only renewable peak industry body, QREC represents stakeholders across solar, wind, pumped hydro, electricity transmission and battery storage.
About Engaged Outcomes
Engaged Outcomes is a consultancy on a mission to transform the way engagement is approached in regional Australia. By partnering with industry, it aims to build capacity, empower people, and drive meaningful change in rural, regional, and remote communities.
Click here to learn about RegionalConnect training
For media inquiries, please contact: 0401 736 273