The Glencore First Nations Pathways Program continues to create transformative opportunities for Indigenous Australians, with recent graduates sharing how the initiative has dramatically improved their lives and career prospects.
Life-Changing Opportunities in Mining
Biggs Riot, a graduate from the 2023 program cohort, describes his experience as genuinely life-altering. What began as classroom-based learning evolved into a career that has transformed his family's financial situation and future prospects.
"Working in the mines offers better pay and a better lifestyle," Biggs explained. "My partner also graduated from the program the year after me and it's changed our lives for the better."
The financial stability provided by their mining careers has enabled the couple to achieve milestones previously beyond their reach. They can now afford overseas holidays with their two children and are actively saving to purchase their first home together.
After completing the FNPP, Biggs secured employment as a mobile plant operator and has since progressed to a permanent full-time position at Glencore's Bulga Coal Operation.
Building Confidence Alongside Careers
The program's impact extends beyond employment, significantly boosting participants' self-assurance and professional capabilities. Jed Edgar-Jones, a 2025 program graduate, exemplifies this dual benefit.
Jed initially applied to the FNPP seeking entry into the mining industry. Through successful completion of the 26-week training program, he not only gained multiple qualifications and comprehensive safety knowledge but also developed remarkable personal confidence.
"I have so much more confidence in myself from it," Jed stated. "I am now able to network better with managers, supervisors and people in higher positions; I find it a lot easier to talk to them now."
His achievements have earned him a place in the prestigious Glencore Coal 2026 Apprenticeship Program as a plant mechanic, representing the next step in his growing mining career.
Holistic Approach to Career Preparation
The First Nations Pathways Program takes a comprehensive approach to preparing participants for successful mining careers. The 26-week curriculum covers much more than technical skills, addressing the complete wellbeing of graduates.
According to program coordinator Carrie Bendeich, "We're preparing our graduates to be in the best possible position to succeed in whatever role they take on."
The program includes digital skills development, safety training, health and wellbeing education, mental health support, and shiftwork preparation. Participants receive an extensive list of certifications suitable for entry-level mining positions.
A unique feature of the program is the inclusion of an Indigenous health and wellbeing coach who provides additional support. The curriculum addresses fitness preparation for physical demands, meal planning for optimal nutrition, fatigue management, and psychosocial preparation.
"We want to keep them safe and prepare them to meet the physical and mental demands of shiftwork, so we focus heavily on health and wellbeing," Carrie emphasized.
Growing Legacy and Ongoing Support
Since its inception in Queensland in 2019, with New South Wales added two years later, the FNPP has produced more than 100 successful graduates. These alumni now form a valuable support network for current participants.
"The past graduates who form the alumni group are a great support network for current participants," Carrie noted. "Many of them are still working on Glencore mine sites and will share their knowledge and experiences with current participants. They become role models."
The program continues to expand its support network while maintaining an annual intake of 24 participants. This ongoing community provides lasting benefits, as Biggs confirms from personal experience.
"There is overwhelming support even when you've finished, people from the program check in," he said. "You don't just do the program, then that's it; it's ongoing."
Applications for the 2026 Glencore First Nations Pathways Program open in January 2026 and close on February 28, 2026. Interested individuals can find more information or apply by visiting www.glencore.com.au and searching for the First Nations Pathways Program.
