emPOWER: Voices of the Regional Energy Shift

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

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

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

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.