Renewable energy projects are moving ahead on Country. But often, First Nations people are brought in too late to shape what those projects become. First Nations Energy Partners exists to change that.
As large-scale development accelerates, so does the value it creates. But many projects still involve First Nations people late in the process, limiting real influence over outcomes. These projects are also complex. Navigating them takes legal, financial and technical expertise that isn’t always easy to access.
First Nations Energy Partners was established to close that gap – so communities can engage earlier, understand their options, and take part in projects in a way that reflects their priorities. We build together with our partners - Original Power and the First Nations Clean Energy Network, which have supported communities to self-determine what happens on their Country since 2018.

Self-determination is at the heart of everything we do. We back First Nations people and deliver long-term benefits that reflect identified goals and priorities. It’s not about what a project can offer, it’s about what matters to the community. This value keeps us clear. It shapes how we partner, where we show up, and what we focus on.

We do our best work in strong partnerships. With communities, developers, funders and others who are in it for the right reasons. That means being clear on values, sharing responsibility, and putting in the time to build real trust. Good partnerships aren’t quick or transactional; they take care and follow-through. This value shapes how we show up, who we work with, and what we expect from each other.

Our work isn’t driven by shareholders or the bottom line. It’s driven by outcomes that matter to First Nations communities. It’s not about maximising returns; it’s about what projects deliver over time. This value keeps things honest. It shapes how decisions are made, who we work with, and what we prioritise.

Good ideas aren’t enough. What matters is what gets built, what works, and what lasts. We stay focused on outcomes that communities want. Practical, useful, and real. That means doing the work properly, solving problems as they come, and not walking away when it gets hard. This value keeps us accountable. We’re here to make things happen, not just talk about them.
The First Nations Energy Partners logo represents energy in all its forms: cultural, environmental, and relational.
It is inspired by the sine wave, the universal symbol of energy flow and electricity, that has been reimagined through a First Nations lens, shaped organically to reflect the rhythms of Country and the strength of partnerships.
At its core, this mark embodies power with purpose. It symbolises how First Nations Energy Partners turns potential into action: powering up communities to lead their own future.
The wave form speaks to the continuous nature of energy. Rising, falling, and evolving, much like the journey of self determination and the careful balance between tradition and innovation. Its organic linework mirrors the movement of wind and water, the warmth of the sun, and the interconnectedness of the systems that sustain life. Within this form lies a story of partnership and unity.
The flowing lines represent collaboration and shared purpose. The coming together of communities, industry, and government to create meaningful, lasting change. The spaces between the forms allow for movement and dialogue. A visual reflection of listening, responding, and adapting as projects and relationships evolve.
David Williams is a proud Wakka Wakka man and the Executive Director and founder of Gilimbaa. He is driven by a deep passion for harnessing the transformative power of creativity in order to amplify, celebrate, and educate wider Australia about Aboriginal culture.
Under his visionary leadership, Gilimbaa has become a trailblazing company, weaving First Nations stories into Australia’s national fabric, while using a diverse range of artistic mediums and communication to foster connection and understanding across communities.
As a practicing artist, designer, and musician for over 20 years, David aims to shine a light on First Nations culture at home and overseas, leaving an indelible mark on public art, design, and cultural projects.
David also contributes to Queensland’s cultural landscape through his positions as Chairperson of the Indigenous Advisory Panel and Board of Trustees Member at Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art.

