Applications are now open for Glencore Coal’s 2025 First Nations Pathways Program (FNPP).

Commencing in May, the FNPP is a 26-week education and training program designed to enable First Nation Australians with connections to the land near Glencore Coal operations to develop their job-readiness skills.

“Across our business in Australia, we seek constructive relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, based on respect, meaningful engagement, trust and mutual benefit,” said Ian Cribb, Glencore Coal Chief Executive Officer.

“Our First Nations Pathway Program aims to support Indigenous people in gaining experience and expanding their knowledge with new challenges towards opportunities in the mining industry.

“The program is now in its seventh year and continues to demonstrate enduring benefits as measured by the numbers of graduates who have secured and maintained permanent employment.”

Twelve participants graduated from the 2024 NSW program, marking the most successful year in its history, while eight participants graduated from the QLD program. Seventeen of those twenty graduates had already secured employment by graduation.

Carrie Bendeich, Glencore Coal’s Indigenous Programs Coordinator, said the program supports and inspires Indigenous Australians to become job-ready and pursue their career goals.

“Through the program, participants develop crucial skills and obtain necessary mining qualifications to enter the industry. These skills not only prepare them for immediate employment but also equip them for long-term career success.”

Successful applicants will participate in the 26-week training and work experience program, which is delivered in two phases across Glencore Coal operations in the NSW Upper Hunter Valley, and Queensland Bowen Basin.

At the completion of the program, participants will have fulfilled the requirements to obtain a Certificate II in Surface Extraction, as well as gain important employment ready skills.