The Carmichael coal operation is launching a traineeship program to recruit Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to critical mining roles.

DRA Global’s First Nations Traineeship Program includes roles as a coal handling and preparation plant operator, site administrator and site health, safety and environment administrator.

DRA provides operations and maintenance services at the Carmichael Coal Handling and Preparation Plant facility (CHPP).

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DRA senior vice president delivery for APAC Michael Carretta said the traineeship program recognised the value of cultural diversity and further increased inclusion within the mining industry.

Mr Carretta said the group was proud to partner with Carmichael mine owner Bravus Mining and Resources on the traineeship initiative.

Bravus Mining and Resources Chief Operating Officer Mick Crowe said the new two-year traineeship opportunities would prioritise Wangan and Jagalingou, Jangga, Birriah, and Juru Traditional Owners.

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“Traditional Owner engagement and participation has been a key focus for our business since the earliest days of the Carmichael project,” Mr Crowe said.

“Programs like DRA’s First Nations Traineeship build on our Indigenous Land Use Agreements, Cultural Heritage Management Plans, and Indigenous Participation Plan to generate multigenerational benefits for Traditional Owners and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“Roles in the resources sector are often lifelong careers full of rewarding work and we’re excited about the journey these traineeships will begin for First Nations people in our community.”

Image at top of page: The DRA Global team at the Carmichael mine’s CHPP.