Carmichael mine traineeship program to empower First Nations communities

Bravus Mining and Resources has joined with key contractor partner DRA Global to accelerate the development, training, and employment of First Nations peoples in central Queensland.

DRA’s First Nations Traineeship Program will recruit Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to critical mining roles that support the operations of the 10 million tonnes per annum Carmichael mine near Clermont.

DRA provides operations and maintenance services at the Carmichael Coal Handling and Preparation Plant facility (CHPP) where the high-quality thermal coal mined from the Galilee Basin mine is crushed, washed, and prepared for transport to nations around the world that want to lift their people out of energy poverty.

Bravus Mining and Resources Chief Operating Officer Mick Crowe said the new traineeship opportunities would prioritise Wangan and Jagalingou, Jangga, Birriah, and Juru Traditional Owners.

“Traditional Owner engagement and participation has been a key focus for our business since the earliest days of the Carmichael project,” Mr Crowe said.

“Programs like DRA’s First Nations Traineeship build on our Indigenous Land Use Agreements, Cultural Heritage Management Plans, and Indigenous Participation Plan to generate multigenerational benefits for Traditional Owners and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“Roles in the resources sector are often lifelong careers full of rewarding work and we’re excited about the journey these traineeships will begin for First Nations people in our community.”

The two-year Traineeship Program includes roles as a Coal Handling and Preparation Plant Operator, Site Administrator and Site Health, Safety and Environment Administrator. Recruitment of First Nations Peoples will be conducted regardless of age, gender, religion, or other demographic criteria.

DRA Senior Vice President Delivery for APAC Michael Carretta said the program recognised the value of cultural diversity and further increased inclusion within the mining industry.

“As a global multinational company, DRA is committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce that reflects the communities where we operate, employing local people to drive better economic outcomes and striving to leave a positive impact,” said Mr Carretta. 

“We are proud to partner with Bravus on this initiative to collectively strengthen our engagement with First Nations people in Australia.”

Bravus Mining and Resources is committed to creating a positive impact in the communities in which it operates and prioritises local jobs and procurement for regional Queenslanders.

Under the company’s Indigenous Participation Plan, Bravus Mining and Resources requires a minimum of 10 per cent of trainees and 7.5 per cent of workers to be First Nations people.

Bravus Mining and Resources has also committed $7.5 million to First Nations education bursaries and pre-employment programs, and $250 million in First Nations contracting and business development.

ENDS

Download PDF