Funding to power Queensland’s clean energy workforce
CQUniversity has secured $171,407 in funding from the Queensland Government’s TAFE Centre of Excellence to support a groundbreaking research initiative aimed at strengthening the state’s clean-energy workforce - particularly in regional and First Nations communities.
The project, Queensland’s Energy Transition – Skilling Regional and First Nations Communities for Battery Energy Storage Systems, will diagnose workforce needs and design innovative, culturally appropriate training pathways to prepare Queenslanders for rapidly expanding Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) jobs.
Led by Professor Hurriyet Babacan, a nationally recognised expert in regional workforce transitions, the research team will assess current skills supply, identify training gaps and develop a pilot battery safety and recycling course tailored for remote and Indigenous learners.
The project will involve extensive consultation with industry, local councils, TAFEs, training organisations and First Nations leaders across Central and North Queensland.
Professor Babacan said the grant would help ensure Queenslanders were ready to seize the opportunities emerging from the state’s clean-energy transformation.
“Battery energy storage systems are expanding quickly across regional Queensland, but workforce shortages remain one of the biggest barriers,” Professor Babacan said.
“This project will provide the evidence, partnerships and training solutions needed to ensure regional and First Nations communities are not just included in the transition but can lead it.”
CQUniversity Vice-President (Research) Professor Grant Stanley said the grant reflected CQU’s deep commitment to supporting Queensland’s energy future and strengthening regional capability.
“As a university for regional Australia, CQU is proud to play a central role in helping Queensland meet its clean-energy goals,” Prof Stanley said.
“This grant allows our experts to work hand-in-hand with communities and industry to build skills pathways that are accessible, meaningful and future-focused.”
The study will forecast BESS workforce demand over the next five years, map existing training options, and identify the barriers preventing regional Queenslanders - particularly First Nations learners - from enrolling in or completing BESS-related qualifications.
The project will also design a scalable pilot training course using flexible, culturally informed delivery methods, including online modules and virtual learning tools.
Findings will support training providers, employers and policymakers to better prepare for Queensland’s fast-evolving clean-energy sector and build local workforces capable of maintaining and managing community-based energy projects.
CQUniversity’s project is one of 47 initiatives funded across Queensland to build skills and capability for the renewable energy transition under the TAFE Centre of Excellence grant program.
