Oil and gas major Santos and its joint venture partners have launched a AU$3.05 million pilot initiative aimed at boosting Indigenous employment and training pathways across the Northern Territory.
The Saltwater Pathways Program, funded over three years by the Barossa Aboriginal Future Fund (BAFF), will support up to 13 Aboriginal trainees from five coastal territory regions.
The joint venture, which includes Santos, PRISM Energy Australia, and JERA Australia, has partnered with Programmed Skilled Workforce to deliver the initiative.
Trainees will undertake nationally recognised Certificate III or IV qualifications alongside structured, hands-on experience linked to Santos’ multibillion-dollar Barossa gas project.
The program is backed by major industry contractors, including Darwin LNG, BW Offshore, Qube, and Compass Group, to provide direct employment pipelines into the energy and resources sector upon graduation.
The launch coincides with the public release of Santos’ updated 2030 Indigenous Participation Plan, which aims to drive sustainable employment and business opportunities nationwide. Indigenous staff currently account for 8 per cent of Santos’ workforce across the Top End.
Santos CEO Kevin Gallagher stated that creating long-term career pathways for young Territorians remains a key priority for the company.
“Employment and economic participation have been consistently identified as priority needs across all BAFF regions,” Gallagher said.
“The Saltwater Pathways Program responds directly to this need by combining accredited training with practical experience in operational environments.”
“Santos is committed to continually improving Indigenous engagement and creating meaningful employment opportunities to benefit the communities in which we operate.”
BAFF Advisory Committee Chairperson Brian Tipungwuti welcomed the investment, noting the program opens doors for young people eager to work.
“Saltwater Pathways will help open those doors by providing training, support and hands-on experience that can lead to long-term jobs and careers,” Tipungwuti said.