Expression of Interest: Waratah Community Benefit Sharing Workshop
How To Apply
To express your interest in participating in the Waratah Community Benefit Sharing Workshop, please complete the application form at the bottom of the page and submit it by March 23rd 2025. Applications will be reviewed based on the selection criteria, and successful applicants will be notified. Please note the session/s will be held in late April/early May.
Background
Community benefit sharing is a key pillar of Akaysha Energy's commitment to ensuring local communities directly share in the benefits of renewable energy infrastructure. As part of the Waratah Super Battery project, we have allocated $50,000 annually for community benefit-sharing initiatives, sustained over the operational life of the battery. These funds aim to support projects that foster community well-being, build local capacity, and align with the values of sustainability, inclusion, and innovation.
The Waratah Community Benefit Sharing Workshop is an opportunity for community members, stakeholders, and local organisations to shape how these funds are allocated to maximise impact. By participating, you will contribute to the development of a transparent and equitable benefit-sharing framework tailored to the community's unique needs and aspirations.
Workshop Objectives
The primary objectives of the Waratah Community Benefit Sharing Workshop are to:
- Identify priority community projects and initiatives that align with local needs and values.
- Foster collaboration and build relationships among community members, organisations, and stakeholders.
- Ensure community benefit sharing reflects sustainability, inclusion, and innovation.
Selection Criteria
To ensure a diverse and representative group of participants, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Community Connection: Demonstrate a clear connection to the local area impacted by the Waratah Super Battery project (e.g., resident, local business owner, or community organisation representative).
- Commitment to Collaboration: Display a willingness to work constructively with others and contribute to discussions that will inform decision-making processes.
- Diversity and Inclusion: Priority will be given to ensuring representation across various demographics, including Indigenous communities, youth, and other underrepresented groups.
- Non-Political Affiliation: To maintain the non-partisan nature of the initiative, individuals holding elected political office or representing political parties are not eligible to participate.
Stipends
To recognise the time and effort of participants, a stipend will be provided in the form of an Eftpos voucher. This voucher acknowledges the valuable contributions of workshop attendees and aims to reduce barriers to participation.
Accessibility and Support
Akaysha Energy is committed to making the workshop accessible to all participants. Support services such as transportation assistance, or language interpretation can be arranged upon request. Please indicate any specific needs in your application to ensure your full participation.
Filming and Photography
To document and celebrate the workshop, filming and photography will take place throughout the event. These materials may be used for Akaysha Energy’s communication and promotional purposes. By attending, participants consent to being photographed or filmed. If you have any concerns or would prefer not to appear in visual materials, please indicate this in your application.
Feedback Opportunities
Participants will have the opportunity to provide feedback throughout the workshop, both during discussions and via written surveys. Your insights will help refine the benefit-sharing framework and improve future workshops.
Follow-Up Process
After the workshop, Akaysha Energy will compile the outcomes and share a summary with all participants. The decisions made during the workshop will guide the implementation of the community benefit-sharing initiatives. Timelines for fund allocation and ongoing engagement will also be communicated.
