Australia: QGC Launches Reconciliation Action Plan

Queensland Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs Glen Elmes on Tuesday launched a QGC plan to provide economic, social and environmental opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

The Reconciliation Action Plan, approved by the non-government, not-for-profit foundation Reconciliation Australia, sets targets for employment numbers, contracts with indigenous businesses and mentoring schemes up to 2015.

The plan also includes apprenticeships and traineeships and a cultural awareness training program for QGC staff.

Eight Aboriginal groups across QGC’s Queensland Curtis LNG Project area have Indigenous Land Use Agreements with QGC that detail native title and cultural heritage responsibilities.

The agreements are with people from the Mandandanji, Bigambul, Iman, Wulli Wulli, Wakka Wakka, Barunggam, Cobble Cobble, Jarowair, Western Wakka Wakka, Yiman, Port Curtis Coral Coast and Gangulu and Warrabal groups.

As part of these partnerships, QGC runs training programs in vocations such as drilling and earthmoving and is working to build the capacity of indigenous-owned businesses and to increase employment prospects for young people.

QGC will report progress to Reconciliation Australia each year.

Managing Director Derek Fisher said QGC was committed to closer and more comprehensive engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“This plan enhances our ability to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians to find work with us, improve skills and develop successful businesses,” Fisher said.

“Development of natural gas will continue to benefit the communities where we work and we now have a clearer view of our future work to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.”

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LNG World News Staff, November 20, 2013; Image: QGC