MEDIA RELEASE Thursday, March 6, 2025
The power of inclusion – driving meaningful change in energy transition
A report released today has found worker shortages in Australia's clean energy construction boom could easily be alleviated if developers reimagine diversity, inclusion and equity in the workforce.
The report, Reimagining Diversity in Clean Energy Careers, released by The Next Economy, found that removing barriers to workforce participation can enable people from marginalised groups to access meaningful career opportunities and help fill the worker shortfall.
The report highlights the need to build accessible and inclusive career development pathways and supportive workplace practices, in order to help realise Australia's 2030 renewable energy target.
The Next Economy's Jacqui Bell said that while Australia has the solutions, resources and expertise to reach net zero, worker shortages were a significant challenge.
"Labour shortages are already an issue in regional Australia, and with approximately 200,000 more workers needed to drive the clean energy transition before 2030, there's a real opportunity for an inclusive clean energy workforce," Ms Bell said.
Ms Bell said people with disabilities, the previously incarcerated, refugees, migrants, youth and LGBTIQ people were among those who were keen to work but currently face barriers to employment.
"Removing barriers to workforce participation will benefit workers, employers and regional economies.
"If Australia gets this right, and embeds really strong diversity, equity and inclusion strategies into our workforce development efforts, we will help to deliver a faster, fairer and more inclusive transition to net zero.
"This will increase innovation, retention and productivity in the workplace, and deliver broader social and economic benefits, such as reduced reliance on social services and improved health and wellbeing amongst workers."
The report highlights excellent examples of initiatives and research across Australia, within and outside of the clean energy sector, showing what is possible and beneficial.
"It's an exciting time for Australia's energy sector and there's a real opportunity for developers to lead the way in providing opportunities for people who are eager to contribute."
To read the report go to https://nexteconomy.com.au/work/powering-the-transition-while-championing-diversity/
