Inside the fossil fuel industry's push into Australian classrooms
At least 260 educational programs in Australia are sponsored by fossil fuel companies, according to a report by a climate advocacy group.
An industry-backed education program, sponsored by major fossil fuel companies, has been criticized for its intrusion into Australian classrooms and potential corporate influence on education. The Energy Club WA, formerly known as The Petroleum Club of WA, has operated since 1991 and has received tens of millions of dollars in funding from oil and gas companies such as Woodside Energy and Exxon Mobil.
During a recent incursion at Busselton Senior High School in Western Australia, students were taught about oil drilling using bread and chocolate spread, a method that industry representatives used to demonstrate exploration drilling. The program's organizers claimed to consult with participating schools to ensure content appropriateness, but concerns remain about the framing of gas as a solution to transitioning to renewable energy.
Critics argue that such corporate-sponsored education programs constitute "petro-grooming," exploiting children's trust in educational institutions. Investigations by Comms Declare found that fossil fuel companies have invested close to $55 million in educational programs across Australia, with resources from giants like BHP, Chevron, Woodside, Glencore, and Shell disclosed in six programs and partnerships.
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