Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders at Transgrid

Transgrid recognises that it has a significant role to play in reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We recognise that our transmission lines, substations and other assets exist on land that has belonged to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples for millennia before European settlement. We recognise the injustices perpetrated upon Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples over the past two centuries and the devastating impact this has had on communities, including disproportionate incarceration rates, reduced life expectancies and resulting in reduced access to opportunities. 

Our vision for reconciliation is a future where educational and employment opportunities are of the same high standard as those enjoyed by other Australians, and a future where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People’s deep knowledge of and connection to the land is recognised, respected and celebrated by all Australians. As we continue to develop our energy network we are in a unique position to play a part in nurturing a synergy with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and communities as we recognise that they hold great knowledge of, and have deep connections to the lands upon which those assets will exist.

Transgrid is committed to working alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to connect, learn and create sustainable opportunities. Whilst we recognise inequality, we also do not want to diminish the achievements and resilience of Indigenous peoples and communities by only viewing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures through a deficit perspective.

In 2023, Transgrid began the next phase of our reconciliation journey with the launch of our Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan. 

The RAP comprises of a wide range of initiatives and programs over the next three years under the following core areas: 

• Furthering respectful and meaningful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across our transmission network
• Deepening the cultural awareness, understanding and respect of our employees and leaders
• Showing deep respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artefacts and places impacted by our projects.
• Delivering measurable and sustainable economic benefits to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses and communities that we work with
• Improving employment opportunities, retention and professional development of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples within Transgrid, and
• Leading and championing reconciliation within the energy industry.