Banjima Native Title Aboriginal Corporation (BNTAC) and Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation (YAC), through their respective commercial entities Banjima Pty Ltd (BPL) and Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation (YEC), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore renewable energy and transmission opportunities on Banjima Country.
The agreement establishes an exclusive framework for collaboration to investigate a pipeline of projects that could support the Pilbara's energy transition.
The MOU reflects a shared commitment by Banjima and Yindjibarndi organisations to explore renewable energy and transmission opportunities on Banjima Country and create long-term benefits for their people.
The partnership aligns with the objectives of the Pilbara Energy Transition Plan, including supporting regional decarbonisation, increasing Aboriginal participation in the energy transition, and enabling the development of common-use infrastructure to strengthen the Pilbara energy system.
Banjima has already secured $2.5 million through the State Government's Clean Energy Future Fund to support the development of a renewable energy project on Banjima Country. This collaboration provides an opportunity to bring together Banjima's aspirations for Country with YEC's renewable energy development and commercial capability.
BNTAC Chair Paula White said the agreement represents an important opportunity for Traditional Owner groups to work together on matters that will shape the future of the Pilbara.
"The energy transition presents significant opportunities for Traditional Owner people across the Pilbara. By working together, we can explore opportunities that align with our shared values, protect Country and create lasting benefits for future generations."
"This partnership means we can advance our first major renewable energy project on Banjima Country which is backed by a $2.5m State government Clean Energy Future Fund grant."
Yindjibarndi Group CEO and YEC Director Michael Woodley said collaboration between Traditional Owner groups would be critical to ensuring First Nations people are active participants in the energy transition.
"As Traditional Owners, we have a responsibility to think about the long-term future of our people and our Country. This agreement provides a foundation for Banjima and Yindjibarndi organisations to explore opportunities together and ensure our voices are part of the conversations shaping the Pilbara's future."
"We want to see Traditional Owners not only consulted on major energy developments, but actively participating in and benefiting from them."
While the MOU establishes a framework for cooperation, it does not commit either party to the development of specific projects or investment decisions. Any future opportunities identified through the collaboration will be subject to further assessment, commercial considerations and relevant approvals.
