Essential Energy has earned recognition as a first-time finalist in the Outstanding Diversity and Inclusion Initiative category at the Australian Association of Graduate Employers Industry Awards (AGRIAs).

Damian Brand, Lauren James, Cherry Connew and Jess McKinnon (left to right) from the Essential Energy Talent Acquisition Team

The nomination represents a significant achievement for the business, highlighting its commitment to building a diverse workforce and future-ready workforce to support communities across regional, rural and remote New South Wales in the energy transition.

The submission was a joint effort between the Early Talent Pathways (ETP) and Inclusion and Diversity (ID) teams, showcasing how targeted recruitment, designated roles for First Nations Peoples and women, and strong community partnerships are creating meaningful career pathways in the energy sector.

Essential Energy Chief Operations, People and Safety Officer, Amalie Smith says that the rapid pace of the energy transition requires a workforce rich in diverse thinking and experience, and an inclusive organisation that encourages collaboration and fresh perspectives to ways of working. 

“Diversity - not only in operational roles, but all roles across the organisation - is critical to shaping the network of the future and to addressing the current skills gap as we continue to build a smarter, safer and more inclusive energy future,” Amalie says. 

Underpinned by a broader inclusion and diversity strategy which supports high levels of inclusive leadership capability and an inclusive culture that represents the communities in which we live and work. 

To help embed this strategy across the business, Essential Energy has five internal reference groups focused on Gender, First Nations, Disability, LGBTIA+ and Multicultural inclusion. These groups play a key role in shaping policies, programs and conversations that make Essential Energy a more supportive and representative place to work.

“We’re honoured to be recognised through the AGRIA Awards,” Amalie says. “It reflects the work of so many people across the business who are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, supported and empowered to contribute. That’s what drives innovation and helps us better serve our communities.”

By continuing to invest in early careers, community partnerships and inclusive practices, we’re helping to shape a smarter, safer and more sustainable energy future for regional, rural and remote New South Wales.