Origin and the Darling Downs Community

The Darling Downs Power Station currently employs 35 people to operate the facility. A total of more than 1,000 people were employed on site during the power station’s construction.

Origin sees itself as a long term member of the local community on the Darling Downs. As a result, we believe it’s important to have good relationships with our neighbours, town residents, and community groups and to actively contribute to various activities in the community.

Origin has a long history of investment, employment and community support in the regional communities of south west Queensland, with operations covering oil and gas exploration and production, power generation and the supply of LPG.

Origin seeks to work in partnership with our neighbours so we can collaborate on partnerships that address local needs. This has seen us focus on expanding our community partnerships in central and south west Queensland, including a Community Skills Scholarships program and a driver training program.

The Community Skills Scholarships program offers financial support of up to $13,500 for recipients to take up a school-based or full-time apprenticeship or traineeship in any trade they choose. It does not have to be linked to the energy sector and the objective is to encourage them to stay in the local community. In addition to financial support, Origin also offers apprentices and trainees access to our scholarship network, to help meet and learn from local business people. Since the program began, Origin has awarded over 50 scholarships in local communities.

Origin has also been working together with RACQ and the local community to design a program that will equip young drivers with the kind of driving skills and positive driving attitudes that could help save lives. Over 600 young drivers have already been through the Caring About Road Safety (CARS) program.

CARS has places available for students aged over 16 who have a Queensland Learner’s permit. From October 2010, places have also been available to eligible members of the local community, including TAFE students, Provisional (P Plate) licensed drivers and their supervising drivers. The cost of these places are subsidised by Origin.