Supporting long-term benefits
CQ-H2 deeply values the support of the communities where our project is planned and we understand that our ability to operate relies on the support of the people who live near our project.
We are committed to working with the Gladstone community to ensure that the project creates long-term benefits for the region, and will continue to engage with Central Queensland industry and suppliers and continue stakeholder, community, and First Nations engagement activities as we progress towards a Final Investment Decision for our Initial Phase in mid-2025.
To guide our community engagement, we draw on the regional energy transformation principles established by the Queensland Government under the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan.
To drive genuine and ongoing engagement with our communities. We demonstrate an inclusive, collaborative approach to supporting communities through the energy transformation.
To engage, value and involve First Nations Peoples- recognising their unique connection to Country and the opportunity for active participation and economic benefit from the energy transformation.
To support communities to build local capacity to positively manage change and unlock the benefits associated with the energy transformation.
To promote diverse economies, enabling diverse land uses, and coexistence between industries where possible, to maintain and strengthen local economies.
To foster environmental resilience and deliver better biodiversity outcomes and contribute towards meeting climate targets.
To share lasting benefits with communities - creating opportunities to share the economic, social and environmental benefits of energy transformation.
To expand workforce opportunities and secure livelihoods- fostering opportunities through training, promoting workforce diversity and embedding secure work.
To build local and buy local by expanding local procurement, manufacturing and supply chain opportunities, working with local businesses to enable greater participation.
Community and First Nations engagement
The development of the hydrogen industry in Gladstone will have a range of social impacts in the region. Through the course of our FEED Study, CQ-H2 has undertaken an extensive community engagement to understand the region’s current and historical socioeconomic environment, examine potentially significant project impacts and opportunities, and seek community feedback on mitigation and management measures that are proposed. Key issues that CQ-H2 will carefully manage during construction and operation of the project include impacts on housing and accommodation, community health, safety and wellbeing, social services and emergency services, and local amenity.
CQ-H2 recognises that, as an emerging industry, new training and education will be required to develop the skills necessary to construct and operate a large-scale hydrogen production facility. CQ-H2 is currently developing several initiatives to provide skills and training opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals and people through scholarship and apprenticeship opportunities.
Recognising the importance role of First Nations peoples participation in the development of the hydrogen industry, CQ-H2 has engaged early and has developed a strong relationship with First Nations Bailai, Gurang, Gooreng Gooreng, Taribelang Bunda people.
