Sabiene Heindl and Tom Everitt – Empowering Social License in the Energy Transition

What does it take to get the right energy projects done right—especially in regional Australia? In this episode, Wendy Agar sits down for a candid fireside chat with Sabiene Heindl, CEO of The Energy Charter (TEC), and Tom Everitt from TDC Services in Victoria. Together, they unpack what social license really means—and how to earn it one conversation, one person, and one community at a time.

Drawing on real-world experience, they explore:

• Why social license is essential—not optional—for the energy transition
• The “burning platform” for engagement and what’s playing out on the ground
• The cultural change needed to bridge the gap between industry and community
• Why education alone isn’t enough—and what it takes to drive broader transformation
• Practical insights on training, trust-building, and turning good intentions into action
• Lessons from land agents, national training programs, and grassroots collaboration

This is an honest, hopeful, and deeply practical discussion for anyone working in or impacted by the energy transition—whether you're in policy, development, engagement, or community leadership.

This podcast is an initiative of Engaged Outcomes - a training, facilitation and engagement organisation, dedicated to building capacity, empowering people and driving lasting change for regional communities across Australia.

 

EmPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO collaboration across the energy sector nationally, delivering better outcomes for customers and communities in the energy transition.

Produced by The Podcast Boss