In this thought-leaders episode of emPOWER, host Wendy Agar speaks with one of Australia’s most experienced energy leaders — Paul Binsted, Chair of Energy Corporation of NSW and former Chair of Stanwell Corporation in Queensland.

With deep experience across corporate finance, infrastructure, generation, and transmission,Paul brings unmatched insight into the reality of Australia’s energy transition. In this conversation, he breaks down a complex system with clarity, exploring what it really takes to deliver abundant, affordable, and reliable energy while ensuring regional communities share in the benefits of a fair transition.

Together, Wendy and Paul unpack big questions shaping Australia’s energy future, including:

• The current state of the energy transition across the country — and what it means for host communities
• Why abundant and reliable energy underpins a thriving, modern society
• The importance of genuine engagement, good-neighbour behaviour, and working with a generosity of spirit
• The three priorities Paul believes Australia must get right for communities to adapt and thrive
• What success could look like in 2035 — for both the energy system and the regions powering it

This episode is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, partnering with communities to deliver the Regional Energy Accord — bringing people, industry, and government together to guide the transition and create real local outcomes.

Settle in for a thoughtful, clear, and timely discussion with Paul Binsted — and discover what a fair and prosperous energy future could look like for regional Australia.

 

Produced by The Podcast Boss

In this thought-leaders episode of emPOWER, Wendy Agar speaks with David Shankey, CEO of the Net Zero Economy Authority, the national body helping Australia’s regions and communities navigate the shift to a net zero emissions economy.

Before leading the Authority, David was Deputy Director-General at Queensland’s Department of Energy and Public Works, where he built a reputation for his deep expertise in energy and climate policy—and his commitment to ensuring regional communities share in the benefits of change.

Together, Wendy and David explore a big question: How can we meet Australia’s national energy needs while ensuring host communities share in the benefits of a fair transition?

Drawing on his experience, David unpacks:

• The current state of play for regional communities and landholders in Australia’s energy transition
• What needs to happen to support both traditional energy regions in transition and communities experiencing new renewable development
• The role of government partnership and community-led planning in shaping fair and lasting outcomes
• Why there’s no single silver bullet, but many local solutions needed for diverse regional economies

emPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO-led collaboration 

across the national energy sector.  They partner with communities to create a Regional Energy Accord that guides the transition and delivers real local outcomes.

 

Produced By The Podcast Boss

In this episode, Wendy Agar sits down with Karin Stark – farmer, renewable energy advocate, and founder of the Renewables in Agriculture Conference – and Andrew Bomm – advisor and land management expert with hands-on experience in shared solar grazing – to explore how agriculture and solar can not only coexist but thrive together.

Drawing on their deep experience across farming, energy policy, and land management, as well as insights from co-authoring the groundbreaking Pursuing an Agrivoltaics Future report, Karin and Andrew share what they’ve learned about the real opportunities — and challenges — of agrivoltaics in the Australian context.

Together, they unpack:

• What agrivoltaics really is (and how it works)
• How dual land use can support farmers, build trust, and reduce conflict around large-scale solar
• Environmental and land management impacts — from food security to fire risk
• Key barriers to adoption in Australia, and how to overcome them

Whether you work in engagement, energy, agriculture — or you're just curious about the future of land use in regional Australia — this episode offers practical insights, policy perspectives, and real-world examples to help you stay informed and inspired.

emPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO-led collaboration across the Australian energy sector committed to delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition. Produced by The Podcast Boss

How do we deliver the energy transition in a way that’s fair, coordinated, and genuinely benefits regional communities? In this episode of the emPOWER Podcast, Wendy Agar speaks with Tony Mahar, the new Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner, about what it really takes to build trust, strengthen accountability, and deliver lasting benefits in the regions driving our energy future. Tony brings a fresh and grounded perspective to the role, shaped by a decade leading the National Farmers’ Federation and a long career in agriculture, agribusiness, and regional advocacy. Since taking up the Commissioner role in late 2024, he’s been on the ground across the country—listening, learning, and challenging the sector to do better. Together, Wendy and Tony explore:  

• What the post-election policy landscape means for communities and industry
• Why engagement continues to fall short—and what meaningful engagement looks like
• How to move from box-ticking and compliance to real accountability
• Why visible, authentic leadership is essential to social license

If you work in energy, regional development, infrastructure, or community engagement, this episode is packed with practical insights, tough questions, and forward-thinking ideas to lift the bar across the sector.    Whether you’re out in the paddock, on the road, or behind a desk—tune in and be part of shaping an energy transition that works for all Australians. emPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter—a CEO-led collaboration committed to better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.   Produced By The Podcast Boss

What does it take to get the right energy projects done right—especially in regional Australia? In this episode, Wendy Agar sits down for a candid fireside chat with Sabiene Heindl, CEO of The Energy Charter (TEC), and Tom Everitt from TDC Services in Victoria. Together, they unpack what social license really means—and how to earn it one conversation, one person, and one community at a time.

Drawing on real-world experience, they explore:

• Why social license is essential—not optional—for the energy transition
• The “burning platform” for engagement and what’s playing out on the ground
• The cultural change needed to bridge the gap between industry and community
• Why education alone isn’t enough—and what it takes to drive broader transformation
• Practical insights on training, trust-building, and turning good intentions into action
• Lessons from land agents, national training programs, and grassroots collaboration

This is an honest, hopeful, and deeply practical discussion for anyone working in or impacted by the energy transition—whether you're in policy, development, engagement, or community leadership.

This podcast is an initiative of Engaged Outcomes - a training, facilitation and engagement organisation, dedicated to building capacity, empowering people and driving lasting change for regional communities across Australia.

 

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.

Produced by The Podcast Boss

Lighthouse series

What does it take for communities to lead the renewable energy transition—not just be consulted? In this episode, Wendy Agar talks with Dr Amanda Cahill and Dr Gareth Edwards about empowering local leadership, supporting self-determination, and making engagement meaningful.

 They share real-world stories and insights from regional Australia and around the world, based on their book Regional Energy Transitions in Australia: From Impossible to Possible. Together, they explore:

• What a “just transition” really looks like in regional communities
• How the energy transition is reshaping local economies and driving place-based change
• Common barriers faced by local communities—and how to overcome them
• Practical steps to build strong partnerships with regional Australia
• Global lessons on what’s needed to truly empower communities during the energy transition

 Whether you work in renewable energy, policy, engagement, or simply care about stronger outcomes for regional Australia—this episode is packed with ideas and inspiration.

Get your copy here - Regional Energy Transitions in Australia: From Impossible to Possible with discount code 25AFLY1 for a 20% discount.

 

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.

 

Produced by The Podcast Boss

The energy transition is reshaping regional Australia—but how do we ensure that agriculture and community are at the table, and truly benefiting from it? In this episode Wendy Agar sits down with Jo Sheppard, CEO of the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF), to tackle the big questions at the intersection of agriculture, energy, engagement, and regional leadership.

 

With a deep-rooted passion for agriculture and rural communities, Jo shares her insights on:  Moving beyond transactional deals to create genuine, lasting benefits for farmers and communities.  The biggest opportunities and challenges agriculture faces in the energy transition.  Why better engagement between policymakers, energy developers, and farmers is critical—and how to make it happen.  The misconceptions about modern farming that are shaping (and sometimes mis-shaping) policy and development.  The next 5–10 years of ag and energy—what’s coming, and what industry partners need to consider.

 

Learn more about the work and resources of QFF here:Energy - Queensland Farmers' Federation

 

If you care about the future of regional Australia and how agriculture can coexist with the renewable energy shift, this episode is a must-listen.

 

This podcast is an initiative of Engaged Outcomes - a training, facilitation and engagement organisation, dedicated to building capacity, empowering people and driving lasting change for regional communities across Australia.

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.

Produced by The Podcast Boss

Young people aren’t just the future—they’re a vital part of the now. So how do we ensure their voices are truly heard in the renewable energy transition?

In this episode, Wendy Agar chats with Stephanie Sabrinskas—a passionate organiser, impact producer, and the creative mind behind Power Pops, a virtual reality youth engagement program with the Gippsland Climate Change Network.

Based in the Latrobe Valley, Stephanie brings six years of experience documenting the energy transition in Gippsland and working directly with young people to bring their ideas, energy, and leadership to the table.

You’ll hear:  Why inclusion, diversity, and intergenerational voices matter  How the shift from coal to renewables is landing in her community  What meaningful youth engagement really looks like  What works—and what doesn’t—when engaging diverse voices in regional areas

If you care about empowering the next generation, building inclusive engagement, and creating an energy shift that reflects all voices—this episode is not to be missed.

Learn more about Stephanie’s work at: Gippsland Climate Change Network - https://www.gccn.org.au/news/power-pops | Gippsland New Energy Portal - https://gippslandnewenergy.com.au/ 

This podcast is an initiative of Engaged Outcomes - a training, facilitation and engagement organisation, dedicated to building capacity, empowering people and driving lasting change for regional communities across Australia.

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.

Produced By The Podcast Boss

In this Lighthouse Series episode of the emPOWER podcast, Wendy Agar is joined by Nils Hay, Winston Churchill Fellow and regional development leader from Western Australia. Nils recently completed his international study tour, Regional Power Surge, exploring how large-scale renewable and low-carbon energy projects are impacting regional communities across the globe.

Together, Wendy and Nils explore the big question: How do we enable the energy transition to move at the pace required—while ensuring meaningful, lasting benefits for the regional communities who host the infrastructure and hold the resources?

In this episode, they discuss:

• Global takeaways on community benefits, social license, policy, and coexistence
• Stories of regional communities abroad that are thriving through the transition
• Cautionary tales that highlight what not to do
• Key lessons and best practice Australia can take on board—right now
• How global insights can influence better outcomes in our own backyard

Nils brings a grounded, real-world perspective shaped by years working across regional development and local government in Queensland and Western Australia.  You can read his Churchill report here: Report Completed - Nils Hay

This podcast is an initiative of Engaged Outcomes - a training, facilitation and engagement organisation, dedicated to building capacity, empowering people and driving lasting change for regional communities across Australia.

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.

Tune in to hear how we can avoid repeating mistakes, borrow from global success stories, and build a stronger, fairer transition for regional Australia.

Produced by The Podcast Boss

When big energy projects come to town, what lasting impact do they leave behind? Too often, regional communities receive a flood of short-term sponsorship dollars—but without a plan, the money disappears, leaving little more than a few BBQs and a set of netball skirts.

The community of Miles, QLD, refused to let that happen!

During the coal seam gas (CSG) boom, this small town 300km west of Brisbane found itself at the centre of rapid development. Rather than accepting a cycle of fragmented funding, a group of locals took control—leading a co-designed Community Investment Plan that ensured energy company investments and community benefit funds could easily be strategically aligned with the town’s long-term vision, creating real, lasting impact.

In this episode, Western Downs Regional Councils Deputy Mayor Kylie Bourne joins host Wendy Agar to unpack:

•   Why Miles created a strategic blueprint to ensure developer investments deliver lasting benefits.
•   The step-by-step approach they used to develop a Community Investment Plan to align funding with local priorities.
•       The critical role of local leadership in driving self-determination.
•       Lessons from over a decade of refining and evolving a living, adaptable plan.
• What industry, developers, and governments must do to move beyond transactional funding.

This isn’t just the story of one town—it’s a blueprint for any community facing rapid change. Want more real-world lessons? Check out these other emPOWER episodes:

•       Episode 2 with Chris Sounness (the Wimmera region, Vic)
•       Episode 5 with Cathy McGowan (the Gippsland region, Vic)
•       Episode 7 with Ali McLean & Kate Hook (Hay, NSW)

to hear how other communities are navigating the energy transition and check out The Energy Charter’s #BetterTogether Wimmera Southern Mallee Collaboration to see what’s happening on the ground.

This podcast is an initiative of Engaged Outcomes - a training, facilitation and engagement organisation, dedicated to building capacity, empowering people and driving lasting change for regional communities across Australia.

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.

Produced by The Podcast Boss

It’s a question that keeps popping up in the energy shift across the country—and one that professionals across the industry struggle to answer. Why do some communities push back harder than others? Why does trust seem so hard to build… and so easy to lose?

Join Wendy Agar, your host, as she unpacks  the deep drivers of community anger, social license and trust building with Dr Kieren Moffat, a global expert who has spent decades turning research into real-world action. From tackling inter-group conflict in the Australian Defence Force to leading groundbreaking work at CSIRO and launching Voconiq, Kieren has seen firsthand what fuels community frustration—and, more importantly, what actually works to rebuild trust.

We’re tackling the tough questions, including:

•       What does community actually look like in the energy shift?
•       How does anger show up—and is it always obvious?
•       If we know so much about social license, why is it difficult to achieve?
•       What’s the difference between building trust vs. gaining acceptance?
• What impact does internal company culture have on engagement outcomes—and what can individuals do to shift the narrative?

This isn’t just theory—this is about practical solutions. Whether you’re in renewables, infrastructure, or community engagement, this episode will help you navigate complexity, reduce friction, and engage communities in ways that actually work.

From a dream of becoming a pro golfer to global social license expert, Kieren’s journey is anything but typical…and neither is this conversation!

Tune in now and get ready to change the way you think about social license, building trust and gaining acceptance!

This podcast is an initiative of Engaged Outcomes - a training, facilitation and engagement organisation, dedicated to building capacity, empowering people and driving lasting change for regional communities across Australia.

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.

Produced by The Podcast Boss

How do we build long-term, mutually beneficial relationships with communities that have been over-researched, over-consulted, and over-promised?

Join Wendy Agar in this inspiring episode of the Voices from the Regions series as she explores this question with Mayor Bruce Simpson from the Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council. A standout speaker from the 2024 Power Hour virtual forum series, Mayor Simpson shares his perspective on what the energy transition means for his community and how to engage with respect, authenticity, and purpose.

In this episode, he discusses:

• Blending traditional cultural values with modern approaches and technical knowledge for transformative energy solutions
• Building genuine partnerships beyond consultation for lasting, impactful relationships
• Educating communities about renewable energy and its significance for the future
• Co-designing projects and creating shared agreements for sustainable, community-driven outcomes

Mayor Simpson challenges the status quo, calling for a new narrative where First Nations communities aren’t just participants, but leaders in the energy shift. Packed with real-world stories and practical advice, this episode is essential listening for anyone working in community engagement, renewable energy, or regional development.

Learn more about Cherbourg’s history here: Ration Shed Museum Check out the ‘Understanding First Nations Engagement’ Power Hour here: Power Hour virtual forum

This podcast is an initiative of Engaged Outcomes - a training, facilitation and engagement organisation, dedicated to building capacity, empowering people and driving lasting change for regional communities across Australia.

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.

Inspired by Mayor Simpson’s message? Hit FOLLOW and SHARE this episode with anyone passionate about genuine engagement, renewable energy, or regional development. Let’s change the conversation together!

Produced by The Podcast Boss

In this thought-leaders episode of emPOWER, host Wendy Agar speaks with two passionate regional advocates — Mayor Andrew Smith from Western Downs Regional Council in Queensland and Tracy Lefroy, former Shire President of Moora in Western Australia’s Wheatbelt — about what it takes to lead communities through change in Australia’s energy transition.

While their regions are at different stages of renewable energy development, both Councils are navigating the same challenge — guiding their communities through rapid change while keeping politics out of it. They talk candidly about the bravery and leadership required to bring people along, the importance of communication, transparency, and collaboration, and why communities need to be partners, not passengers, in shaping their energy future.

Together, they unpack:

• How councils can and must help their regions adapt and thrive through change
• The need for genuine partnership, open dialogue, and confident and informed decision-making
• Why diversification and co-existence are key to sustainable regional economies
• Their vision for a fair transition where, in their words, “regions are partners in progress, not casualties of change.”

Join Wendy, Andrew, and Tracy as they explore how Australia can meet its national energy needs while ensuring regional communities share in the benefits — and the future — of a fair transition.

emPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO-led collaboration 

across the national energy sector.  They partner with communities to create a Regional Energy Accord that guides the transition and delivers real local outcomes.

 

Produced by The Podcast Boss

How do you create lasting relationships between agriculture and the renewable energy industry? Join Wendy Agar as she explores this question with Brent Finlay, a Queensland sheep and wind farmer, former National Farmers’ Federation President, and a host landholder for the McIntyre Windfarm, and Maria Baker, the project’s community engagement lead.

Together, Brent and Maria share their unique insights and learnings from developing the McIntyre Windfarm, one of Australia’s largest renewable energy projects. From fostering early trust to building enduring partnerships, they reveal what it takes to make renewable energy coexist successfully with local communities.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How early engagement sets the foundation for project success
• The secrets to building trust and relationships that last decades
• Proven strategies for strengthening partnerships
• Real-world lessons from the McIntyre Windfarm journey

 

Whether you’re a renewable energy professional, a landholder, or someone passionate about community engagement, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories.

This podcast is an initiative of Engaged Outcomes - a training, facilitation and engagement organisation, dedicated to building capacity, empowering people and driving lasting change for regional communities across Australia.

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.

Produced by The Podcast Boss

Join Wendy Agar as she sits down with Rod Stowe, former Fair Trading Commissioner (NSW), and Janine Young, Ombudsman at Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW.

Rod draws from his experience conducting community engagement reviews for Transgrid’s Hume Link project, while Janine offers her unique perspective on resolving disputes and supporting individuals when things go wrong. Together, they explore what it truly takes to engage effectively during the rollout of essential energy infrastructure.

Tune in to hear their insights on:

• Becoming a "welcome guest" in communities
• Building and maintaining trust throughout a project
• Approaching engagement with a holistic mindset
• Navigating the complexities of working in diverse regional settings

Packed with actionable tips and real-world stories, this episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in land access, community engagement, or renewable energy projects. Rod and Janine share practical advice on fostering lasting relationships that ensure project success long after completion.

Don’t miss this essential conversation—perfect for professionals driving Australia's energy transition!

This podcast is an initiative of Engaged Outcomes - a training, facilitation and engagement organisation, dedicated to building capacity, empowering people and driving lasting change for regional communities across Australia.

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.

The energy transition is reshaping local communities and businesses, bringing both exciting opportunities and complex challenges. For those living and engaging in their home communities, this shift comes with unique responsibilities. Local community engagement professionals and land agents are often hired because they are trusted, connected, and better equipped to navigate the subtle nuances of their region.

In this episode, Wendy Agar sits down with John Carey, Stakeholder Engagement Manager (Southern Queensland) at Stanwell. With over 16 years of experience in energy and mining, his experience includes engaging with landowners who have experienced three (3) different major energy projects in his home community in the South Burnett region of Queensland. John shares his reflections on engaging authentically for the long term in his home community.

He offers insights on:

• Building long-term relationships with the community

• The keys to earning and maintaining trust

• Delivering genuine, impactful engagement

• Navigating the intricacies of working in a region you call home

John also leaves engagement practitioners with an important challenge: "Are you an ‘owner’ or a ‘renter’ in your community’s projects?"

Join us for a thoughtful discussion about the unique challenges and rewards of being deeply embedded in your community’s journey through the energy transition.

John was also a guest panellist on our Power Hour virtual forum, 'Understanding Landholders,' which is definitely worth a watch. Catch the insightful discussion here.Understanding Landholders Power Hour 06 06 2024   ( https://youtu.be/c91EwoOGnT8)

This podcast is an initiative of Engaged Outcomes - a training, facilitation and engagement organisation, dedicated to building capacity, empowering people and driving lasting change for regional communities across Australia.

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.

Produced By The Podcast Boss

The phrase “If you are not at the table, you are probably on the menu” emphasizes the crucial role of community involvement in decision-making. Communities understand their own needs, aspirations, and dynamics best, and because no two are alike, their participation is essential for any project's success.

In this episode, Wendy Agar chats with Ali McLean from Hay Shire Council and Kate Hook about how their accidental meeting grew into a partnership that led to the proactive, collaborative approach taken by the Hay district in Western New South Wales. They share the inspiring story of how they supported a genuine community-led process to decide what the energy transition should look like for the Hay district.

This episode offers an insightful look into the successful process driven by local leadership and supported by a backbone organization—in this case, Hay Shire Council. Key topics include:

• The drivers for Hay to do it differently

• The importance of ‘warts and all’ conversations, partnerships, and collaboration

• Their process to ‘bring the community along’ on the co-design process

The result of Hay’s efforts is a document outlining the fundamental principles for a successful energy transition in the Hay LGA (Fundamental Principles for Successful Renewal Development in Hay LGA)

If you're involved in renewable energy development or community engagement, this episode provides valuable insights and actionable strategies that can be applied anywhere.

This podcast is an initiative of Engaged Outcomes - a training, facilitation and engagement organisation, dedicated to building capacity, empowering people and driving lasting change for regional communities across Australia.

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.

Produced By The Podcast Boss

In this episode, we sit down with Jamahl Waddington, Head of Infrastructure Advisory at JLL.  With over 25 years of experience delivering land for large-scale infrastructure projects, Jamahl has a wealth of knowledge, valuable insights and real-world stories to share!

Joining Wendy Agar, Jamahl discusses ‘what’s essential right now’ from a land liaison perspective during the rollout of infrastructure that’s essential to Australia’s energy transition. They dive into key topics, including:

• The evolution of the land liaison role over the past 25 years
• The foundations of successful land access
• How building trust lays the groundwork for social licence
• International trends and insights shaping the sector today

 

Packed with practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone working in land access or generally engaging with communities around renewable energy development. Jamahl offers actionable tips for engaging effectively with landholders and building lasting relationships that will help ensure long-term success — long after the project is completed.

If you're involved in land access or the energy transition, this conversation is not to be missed!

This podcast is an initiative of Engaged Outcomes - a training, facilitation and engagement organisation, dedicated to building capacity, empowering people and driving lasting change for regional communities across Australia.

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.

Produced By The Podcast Boss

In this inspiring episode, Wendy Agar sits down with Cathy McGowan for a candid conversation about the energy transition and how it’s impacting regional communities. While some have found the transition challenging, there are shining examples where local leaders have united their communities and developed strategies to ensure a prosperous future in the net zero era.

Together, they delve into:

• What’s needed to bring people along on a grassroots change journey
• The inspiring example of ‘Totally Renewable Yackandandah in regional Victoria 
• The opportunity for regional collaboration models

Cathy shares her stories, ideas, and insights on leading change and promoting proactive engagement with the benefits of the energy transition at a community and regional level. This episode offers a mud map for community members to lead grassroots involvement and initiatives,  and challenges everyone to ensure regional communities are well-informed and central to the net zero transition.

This podcast is an initiative of Engaged Outcomes - a training, facilitation and engagement organisation, dedicated to building capacity, empowering people and driving lasting change for regional communities across Australia.

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.

Produced By The Podcast Boss

With the majority of clean energy infrastructure being built in regional Australia—largely on privately owned land—engaging with landholders presents unique complexities. These landholders range from large-scale farmers and First Nations people to those on smaller lifestyle properties, each with their own expectations and needs.

In this episode, Wendy Agar sits down with Carly Burnham, the 2024 Australian Organic Farmer of the Year (Home | Bonnie Doone Beef), to explore how agriculture intersects with development in both her business and the broader community. Together, they discuss:

• Carly’s insights into the energy transition

• The intricacies of running a diversified agricultural business

• Social licence in agriculture

• Practical strategies for inclusive engagement

This episode is essential listening for anyone looking to understand the perspectives, priorities, and concerns of landholders during the energy transition.  

We’d love to hear your stories about regional engagement during the energy transition! Reach out at enquiries@EngagedOutcomes.com.au .

This podcast is an initiative of Engaged Outcomes - a training, facilitation and engagement organisation, dedicated to building capacity, empowering people and driving lasting change for regional communities across Australia.

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.

Produced by The Podcast Boss

In many regional Australian communities, the energy transition feels like something happening to them, not with them. When large-scale changes unfold rapidly, it creates a complex environment for engagement and communication.

In this episode, Wendy Agar sits down with internationally recognized risk communication specialist Kelly Parkinson to explore the fundamentals of risk communication and why it’s such a critical skill for those working on the ground during the energy transition. Together, they discuss:

• The first law of risk communication
• How to build and maintain trust in uncertain times
• Common triggers for community outrage
• Key strategies for avoiding and de-escalating outrage

Kelly provides practical insights and techniques to help listeners engage more effectively with regional communities, offering tools to manage heightened emotions and navigate difficult conversations. If you're engaging with individuals or communities around renewable energy development, this episode offers valuable takeaways to build trust and manage risk with confidence.

This podcast is an initiative of Engaged Outcomes - a training, facilitation and engagement organisation, dedicated to building capacity, empowering people and driving lasting change for regional communities across Australia.

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.

Produced by The Podcast Boss

The energy transition is bringing significant changes to our regions, and like any unchosen change, it brings with it both opportunities and challenges. In this episode, Wendy Agar sits down with Chris Sounness, CEO of Wimmera Southern Mallee Development, as he shares his insights on fostering collaboration to bring people in the region together and engaging them in the journey through this transformative period of change.He discusses:

• How do we have the challenging conversations about change as a community?
• How do communities get the benefit when they’re doing the heavy lifting for the energy transition?
• How do we learn from the experiences of other regions that have gone through similar shifts?

Chris also offers practical tips and strategies that make this episode a must-listen!

Curious about the impacts and opportunities for regions during the energy transition? Learn more from independent research conducted in the Wimmera, which answers key questions for local communities—and might offer valuable insights for yours too!

Read more here: https://wsm.org.au/initiatives/energy-transition-local-research/

This podcast is an initiative of Engaged Outcomes - a training, facilitation and engagement organisation, dedicated to building capacity, empowering people and driving lasting change for regional communities across Australia.

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.

Produced by The Podcast Boss

Andrew Dyer is a highly respected and influential energy sector expert, who recently retired from the role of  Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner after a 9 year tenure.  He is currently a professorial fellow at Monash University and has an extensive board portfolio across a broad range of sectors. 

Summary -  In this inaugural episode Wendy and Andrew explore his insights and perspectives from his recently published ‘Community Engagement Review’ report, and the implications for landholders, communities and how engagement is being done. Andrew also shares what he thinks better practice engagement looks like on the ground.

This podcast is an initiative of Engaged Outcomes - a training, facilitation and engagement organisation, dedicated to building capacity, empowering people and driving lasting change for regional communities across Australia.

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.

Produced by The Podcast Boss

In this episode, Wendy Agar speaks with Andy Bray, CEO of RE-Alliance, about a critical question for Australia’s energy transition: how can we meet national energy needs while ensuring regional communities genuinely benefit?

Andy highlights that while the silent majority support renewable energy, this support is conditional—people want to understand what the transition means for their region.

Drawing on RE-Alliance’s work, he explores the importance of:

• Clear communication about local risks and opportunities
• Transparency and trusted information
• Collective planning with communities at the centre
• Building local capacity to shape the transition in their region

Whether you work in energy, government, or regional development, this episode makes the case for collaboration, fairness, and community-led planning as the foundation for a sustainable energy transition.

 

emPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO-led collaboration 

across the national energy sector.  They partner with communities to create a Regional Energy Accord that guides the transition and delivers real local outcomes.

 

Produced By The Podcast Boss

In this thought leaders episode of emPOWER, Wendy Agar speaks with Michael Katz, CEO of RELA, about one of the biggest questions in Australia’s energy transition: how do we meet national energy needs without sidelining the farmers and communities who host the projects?

Michael doesn’t mince words. His vision is clear: landholders must be partners, not bystanders. As he puts it, “everyone benefits or loses together”—and the only way forward is genuine collaboration that values all perspectives and negotiates from there.

From his work with RELA, Michael unpacks:

• The current context in regional australia
• How the future of farming is shifting—where food, fibre, clean energy, biodiversity, and decarbonisation can all co-exist
• Why co-existence isn’t compromise, but a path to greater productivity and resilience
• What success in 2035 could look like if farmers and communities are truly at the centre

Whether you’re in energy, government, or regional development, this episode challenges assumptions and makes the case that putting land at the heart of the transition is the only way to secure fair and lasting outcomes.

emPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO-led collaboration 

across the national energy sector.  They partner with communities to create a Regional Energy Accord that guides the transition and delivers real local outcomes.

 

Produced by The Podcast Boss

In this thought leaders episode of emPOWER, Wendy Agar speaks with Chris O’Keefe, National Spokesperson for the Clean Energy Council. With his broadcaster’s clarity, Chris explores how Australia can meet renewable energy targets while ensuring regional communities hosting projects experience lasting benefits.

From his role at the Clean Energy Council, Chris shares insights on:

• Why regional Australia is central to the Clean Energy Councils members 
• The current state of the energy transition, especially for communities hosting renewable energy projects
• Three key priorities the industry must get right moving forward
• What success could look like by 2035 for both consumers and host communities

Whether you work in energy, government, or regional development, this episode provides Industry’s perspectives on balancing national energy needs with local futures  for a successful transition.

emPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO-led collaboration across the national energy sector.  They partner with communities to create a Regional Energy Accord that guides the transition and delivers real local outcomes.

Produced by The Podcast Boss

In this episode of emPOWER, Wendy Agar sits down with Karen Cain—a Gippsland farmer, former CEO of the Latrobe Valley Authority, and now an international researcher and advisor on the energy transition. Karen’s career has been shaped by her commitment to helping regions navigate big change while building on their strengths.

From her vantage point in Gippsland—an energy-producing powerhouse for more than 130 years—Karen reflects on how this new phase of the region’s story can be an opportunity, not just a challenge. She shares the importance of knitting together lessons learned elsewhere with what’s known locally, and bringing all stakeholders into the conversation so that truly place-based solutions can emerge.

Together, they explore:

• The unique strengths regional Australian communities bring in this shift
• The three pillars of regional development and why they matter for every community
• Why place-based solutions are essential for lasting benefits
• How individuals—no matter their role—can contribute to the change

Whether you’re working in policy, leading projects, or navigating big changes in your own town, this conversation offers practical ways to ensure regional voices are at the centre of the energy shift and communities can see, and seize, the opportunity ahead.

emPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO-led collaboration across the national energy sector.  They partner with communities to create a Regional Energy Accord that guides the transition and delivers real local outcomes.

 

Produced by The Podcast Boss

In this episode of emPOWER, Wendy Agar sits down with Matt Charles-Jones (MCJ) and Matt Grogan from Yackandandah, Victoria, to explore how a small regional town has taken charge of its energy future. Both deeply involved in the Totally Renewable Yackandandah (TRY) movement, they share practical lessons on how communities can embrace renewable energy, drive local action, and create meaningful change.

Reflecting on Cathy McGowan’s words—“If not now, when? If not you, who?”—this conversation highlights the power of community-led energy transitions and the opportunities for regional Australians to shape a fair, coordinated, and locally-driven energy future.

Together, they explore:

• How Yackandandah turned a vision for 100% renewable energy into reality
• The characteristics of communities that self-organise to embrace big ideas
• Critical relationships and partnerships that enable lasting local change
• Lessons for developers, engagement practitioners, and regional leaders on empowering communities
• Insights from the Regional Energy Accord process and why local collaboration matters

Whether you’re working in renewable energy, regional development, community engagement, or are a community leader, this episode offers inspiring, actionable ideas for putting regional voices at the centre of the energy transition.

emPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO-led collaboration across the national energy sector committed to delivering better outcomes for communities and customers during the energy transition. Produced by The Podcast Boss

In this episode, Wendy Agar sits down with strategic communications expert Joanna Stevens, founder of Premier Strategy, to unpack what it takes to genuinely work with—not just in—regional communities. With decades of experience across journalism, government communications, and corporate engagement in infrastructure and renewables, Jo and her team deliver engagement services across Australia. She brings sharp insight and practical strategies for anyone navigating the complex space between policy, projects, and people. Together, they explore: • The key ingredients for meaningful, regionally grounded engagement • What it takes to be the right fit for engagement work in the regions • How to ‘ground truth’ yourself in a community when you're not local • Five strategies to set your engagement up for success from the start Whether you’re leading projects, shaping policy, or facilitating tough conversations on the ground, this episode offers a masterclass in respectful, results-focused engagement. emPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO-led collaboration across the Australian energy sector committed to delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition. Produced by The Podcast Boss

What does a just energy transition look like for coal communities?

In this episode of the emPOWER Podcast, host Wendy Agar sits down with Tony Wolfe—a lifelong Latrobe Valley local, former coal industry worker, local government councillor, and passionate advocate for community-led change.

With decades of lived experience, Tony shares deep insights into the real impacts of the energy transition on regional communities built around coal. From shifting identity to practical realities, Tony unpacks what it takes to transition fairly—and what often gets overlooked.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• How the Latrobe Valley is transitioning from coal to renewables
• The cultural and social shifts communities are navigating
• Why energy efficiency deserves more attention
• Key challenges and opportunities for coal workers and their families
• Tony’s lessons from sitting on two renewable energy community advisory groups
• Practical tips for professionals engaging in coal-affected regions

Learn more about Gippsland’s energy shift at Gippsland Climate Change Network - GCCN Home - Gippsland Climate Change Network

If you’re working in regional engagement, the energy sector, or are simply interested in what the transition really means for people on the ground—this episode is a must-listen.

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition. Produced by The Podcast Boss

Across regional Australia, communities are increasingly asking a simple question: how do we know which energy developers we can trust?

As renewable energy and transmission projects accelerate, trust between industry and regional communities has become one of the defining issues of the energy transition.

One of the most significant responses to that challenge is the Developer Rating Scheme (DRS) — a new initiative designed to lift standards, improve transparency, and help communities understand how developers are performing.

In this episode of emPOWER, host Wendy Agar speaks with three people closely involved in shaping the scheme:

• Tony Maher, Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner • Charlie Prell, retired farmer and Chair of the Landholder Lived Experience Panel • Tracy Lefroy, grain grower and former Shire President from Western Australia

Together they unpack the purpose, opportunities and real-world challenges of the Developer Rating Scheme, including:

• Why trust has become such a defining issue in the energy transition • What landholders and communities are experiencing on the ground • How the Developer Rating Scheme will actually work • Why transparency matters for landholders, neighbours and regional communities • The opportunities — and challenges — as the scheme prepares to launch • What developers should be doing now to build trust and position themselves well

At its heart, this conversation comes back to three things: trust, transparency and accountability.

It also raises an important idea — that communities themselves may play a powerful role in demanding and driving the success of the Developer Rating Scheme.

This episode of emPOWER is supported by The Energy Charter, a national collaboration working with communities, industry and government to deliver better outcomes through the energy transition.

If you work in renewables, transmission, land access, stakeholder engagement or regional development, this conversation will help you understand one of the most important new initiatives shaping how energy projects are developed in regional Australia.

Because the success of the energy transition won’t just depend on infrastructure.

It will depend on trust.

 

Produced by The Podcast Boss

What happens when a region doesn’t speak with one voice,  but still has to make decisions about its future?

We often talk about “the regions” as if they’re one place - one voice - but on the ground, that’s just not the reality.

In the New England region of New South Wales, the energy transition is playing out every day across farming communities, regional centres and local councils,with each navigating change in different ways.

Some people are leaning in.  Some are pushing back.  Most are somewhere in the middle, weighing opportunity, disruption and what this means for the long-term future of their region.

So what does it actually take for a region to shape its own pathway through the energy transition?

Designated as a Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) and home to a growing pipeline of renewable and transmission projects, New England is right in the middle of this shift.

In this episode of emPOWER, host Wendy Agar speaks with Councillor Sam Coupland (Mayor of Armidale Regional Council and Chair of the Coalition of Renewable Energy Mayors) about what the transition actually looks like from inside a region working through it in real time.

This conversation goes beyond the headlines to explore what’s really happening as communities balance opportunity, uncertainty and long-term legacy.

In this episode, we cover:

• What the New England REZ actually means for communities on the ground
• Why most people sit in the middle — not for or against, but weighing trade-offs
• The growing tension between policy ambition and lived experience
• Why benefits are often promised but not yet landing in communities
• The reality of consultation fatigue — and what meaningful engagement looks like instead
• How councils are working together through the Coalition of Renewable Energy Mayors
• What regional leaders need from industry and government right now

At its heart, this conversation explores a simple idea:  Every region has the right to shape its own pathway through the energy transition.

For developers, engagement professionals, land access teams and policymakers working in regional Australia, this episode offers insight into what it takes to partner thoughtfully with communities in ways that support their aspirations, priorities and identity.

This episode is part of the Regions at the Helm series, supported by The Energy Charter — a national collaboration working with communities, industry and government to deliver better outcomes through the energy transition.

 

Produced at our The Podcast Boss podcast studio in Brisbane

Women make up around 3% of on-site trades roles in the energy sector.

At the same time, Australia’s energy transition is facing one of the largest workforce challenges in its history.

So what needs to change if the industry is serious about attracting, and keeping, women in energy?

In this episode of emPOWER, Wendy Agar brings listeners inside the conversations from the PowerUp International Women’s Day event in Kingaroy, where more than 150 women in high-vis and their allies came together to share their experiences of working across the energy sector.

Joining Wendy are two women helping drive change across the industry:

Mel Street — electrical tradie, founder of Lady Tradies and Rocking Chicks, and co-founder of the PowerUp network.

Dr Liz Beavis — engineer working in asset and risk management in renewables and co-chair of the Clean Energy Council’s Onshore Wind and Utility Scale Solar Directorate.

Together they unpack the real issues raised by women working across regional and site-based energy roles, including:

• Supporting boots-on-the-ground women in energy • Why mentoring and leadership pathways matter • Practical barriers still affecting women on site • Why the energy transition needs to actively welcome women into the workforce • What industry leaders, project managers and colleagues can do tomorrow to help balance the scales

At its heart, this conversation comes back to one idea:

The energy transition will require a massive workforce, and the industry cannot afford to overlook half the talent available to it.

If you work in renewables, engagement, land access, community relations or project development in regional Australia, this episode offers practical insight into building a stronger, safer and more inclusive energy sector.

The energy transition isn’t just about infrastructure.  It’s about people.

 

Produced at our The Podcast Boss podcast studio in Brisbane

We often assume that if people just had more information, they’d understand, but in contested environments, communication is rarely just about the facts.

Across the energy transition, many conversations are shaped by something much deeper — trust, identity, social dynamics, lived experience and whether people feel there’s an “us and them” divide.

In this episode of emPOWER, Wendy Agar speaks with Dr Rebecca Colvin from Australian National University about what’s really happening underneath community responses to change, and why even well-intentioned communication can land very differently depending on who’s hearing it.

Drawing on her research into the social dynamics of renewable energy conflict, Rebecca explores why people can look at the exact same landscape and see completely different things, how group identity shapes trust and decision-making, and why relationships matter far more than “perfect messaging.”

Together, Wendy and Rebecca unpack:

• Why conflict around renewable energy is often about far more than infrastructure
• The hidden role of identity, belonging and “us vs them” dynamics
• Why you can’t “out-data outrage”
• The communication mistakes organisations often make, even with good intentions
• What it means to “communicate like a cubist”
• Four practical strategies for communicating across difference in contested environments
• Why trust is built through relationships, not collateral

This episode is part of our Working in the Middle: Engagement on the Ground During the Energy Transition series, proudly supported by Powerlink Queensland.

If you work in engagement, government, renewable energy, infrastructure, leadership or community development, this conversation offers practical insights into how we navigate complexity, conflict and communication in a more human way.

Produced at ⁠The Podcast Boss⁠ ⁠podcast studio in Brisbane

The energy transition is more than policy, it’s people, place and the future of regional Australia.

At its core, this episode is about connectio: between policy and place, between national ambition and local reality, and between the decisions being made now and the generations who will live with them.

In the Riverina Murray, this is playing out in real time across agriculture, regional industries and local communities, each navigating change in different ways.

In this episode of emPOWER, Wendy Agar speaks with Sarimah Hellyar (CEO, Regional Development Australia Murray) and Jessie Armstrong (AGRISHIFT), bringing together both a systems lens and on-the-ground experience.

Together, they explore how the energy transition connects with industrial policy, sovereign capability and the future of regional economies and what that means for communities navigating change in real time.

In this episode, we cover:

• What the energy transition looks like on the ground in the Riverina Murray
• The opportunities and trade-offs communities are navigating as change accelerates
• Why language and narrative shape how regional communities engage
• How to move beyond consultation to genuine participation
• The role of young people — and what helps them step into decision-making

If you work in renewable energy, transmission, agriculture, government or community engagement, this episode offers practical insight into how to better connect strategy with lived experience and why that matters.

This episode is part of the Regions at the Helm series, supported by The Energy Charter — a national collaboration working with communities, industry and government to deliver better outcomes through the energy transition.

Produced at ⁠The Podcast Boss⁠ ⁠podcast studio in Brisbane

Are we hearing from the community,  or just the people most motivated to speak?

In this episode of emPOWER, Wendy Agar is joined by Dr Kieren Moffat (CEO and Co-founder of Voconiq) to unpack a question many of us grapple with in regional Australia:

Who is actually shaping the conversation?

Because while meetings, submissions and media can make it feel like communities are deeply divided, the data tells a different story.  Research from Powerlink Queensland shows most people don’t participate in engagement at all, while a small group shows up again and again.

So what does that mean for how we interpret “community sentiment”? And what if the way we design engagement is part of the problem?

This conversation challenges a core assumption:  Engagement doesn’t just capture community views, it can shape what we hear.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why the “loud minority” can dominate — and what that means for decision-making
• How common engagement approaches can unintentionally skew what we hear
• The impact of engagement fatigue when multiple projects hit a region at once
• What better engagement design looks like in practice 

If you work in renewable energy, transmission, stakeholder engagement, land access or project development in regional Australia, this episode offers a clear, practical lens on how to design engagement that reflects the full community — not just the voices we hear most often.

This episode is part of the Working in the Middle: Engagement on the Ground During the Energy Transition series, supported by Powerlink Queensland.

Produced at ⁠The Podcast Boss⁠ ⁠podcast studio in Brisbane