Fortescue Future Industries and PBC traditional owners sign memorandum of understanding to begin establishing long-term relationship

Fortescue Future Industries (FFI) has today signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding to begin building a long-lasting relationship with the First Nations Bailai, Gurang, Gooreng Gooreng, Taribelang Bunda Peoples Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC (PBC), the traditional custodians of the land on which its Gladstone renewable energy projects are based.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) demonstrates a commitment to co-design initiatives where shared values exist, including connection to culture, shared prosperity, community and economic development and project engagement.

FFI Australia East Director Felicity Underhill said sustainable opportunities for First Nations people in Gladstone would be a key focus of the MoU.

“In developing projects that rely on Australia’s incredible natural renewable resources, it is vital to include the voices of those who have looked after those resources for tens of thousands of years,” Ms Underhill said.

“Australia’s energy transition will present environmental and economic opportunity and we are committed to working with the PBC to ensure the renewable energy projects we are developing in Gladstone deliver mutual, long-term benefit.

“FFI has a strong track record of working collaboratively with First Nations groups and we are so pleased to be continuing that collaborative approach here in Gladstone with the PBC and the Traditional Owners they represent.

“Green hydrogen is a practical and implementable solution that can help reduce the world’s reliance on fossil fuels, and as the green hydrogen and renewable energy sector grows so too will the job opportunities and local economic benefits that stem from it.”

FFI recognises its existing Green Energy Manufacturing Centre (GEM) and other potential green energy projects in Gladstone are in the traditional Country of the First Nations Bailai, Gurang, Gooreng Gooreng, Taribelang Bunda Peoples who have inherent rights and responsibility for Country and people.

PBC Chairman Matthew Cooke said the MoU was an important initial step in building engagement and collaboration between the two organisations.

“This is a monumental shift in the relationship between major industry and traditional owners,” said Mr Cooke.

“It is an opportunity to ensure that Traditional Owners share in the prosperity of economic development and the transition to renewables.

“This partnership is about ensuring that the push towards green energy and the obvious benefits that come from sustainability for the Australian economy is progressed in a way that ensures respect for the land and culture of the Traditional Owners.

“It is very fitting to be entering into this MoU at the launch of the First Nations Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Gladstone during Indigenous Business Month.”