The Shining Success of Bright Sparks

Bright Sparks workshops were co-designed and co-facilitated by Energy Champions, whose lived experience and leadership shaped inclusive energy education created of, by and for people with disability. Their commitment and expertise were central to the success of the program.

QDN collaborated with host organisations across Queensland and partnered with Multicultural Australia to deliver fun, engaging and accessible energy-saving workshops. In 2025, Bright Sparks also expanded its reach through a new online format, delivering accessible energy saving education with Bright Sparks webinars in partnership with Ergon Energy

Bright Sparks in 2025 delivered 49 workshops, empowering more than 380 people with disability, supporters and staff across Queensland , increasing attendees’ knowledge, skills and confidence in energy saving.

Hear from the Energy Champions

Hear testimonials from the energy champions and discover not only how the workshops impacted the attendees they educated, but also the lessons the champions themselves learned.

'Without a co-design process that meaningfully includes the perspective of people with diverse disability, the Bright Sparks phase 2 resources will not be as effective in enhancing access and inclusion for people with a disability who are seeking control and options as energy consumers'.

'One story that stood out (after hosting a Bright Sparks workshop) was from a woman with intellectual disability... Prior to the workshop, this individual had limited knowledge of how to manage energy consumption or what was on an electricity bill. However, the interactive, visual-focused approach of the workshop, combined with the peer-to-peer learning element, increased the engagement of this participant... She said that “no one had ever taught her about this before” ... QDN was then able to connect with this person and invite them to submit their interest to be part of the Emerging Leaders program that aims to build leaderships skills in people with disability so they can continue their leadership journey'.

'I have loved being part of the Bright Sparks workshops and being an Energy Champion. I have learnt how to save money on my bills and speak up for people who might not have a voice to also save money. It made me feel good to see one participant after a workshop change providers and save money'.

'The CPL Booval group of 14 were lively and diverse and included members, staff and support workers. With all abilities in mind, the Bright Sparks team canvassed the interests of the group, focusing particularly on sharing and discussion of favourite appliances, energy costs of everyday appliances and rebates. The discussion of rebates was especially motivating for this group. Several attendees reviewed their household billing arrangements via their energy provider app as the workshop discussion continued and found that they were not claiming all rebates'.

'I have enjoyed all the workshops I have been involved in during the Bright Sparks project. During our workshop at West End Community House, we were able to talk to a group of participants who did not know much about electricity but were eager to learn. One participant spoke English as a second language, so we made a conscious effort to slow down our delivery and give plenty of opportunities for people to ask questions. It was amazing to see the level of interest from participants to learn about electricity and see their “lightbulbs” get turned on to bring down their energy bills'.

Hear From the Participants

Hear testimonials from Bright Sparks workshop participants, how the workshops impacted them, what they learnt, and what changes they made because of the program.

'(energy use) is such a big part of our lives, it is good to understand how it all works'.

'(I have learnt) how to speak to my support workers, because if I don’t talk to them about that, they will not know what to do. It’s my voice and I need to speak up'.

'Helped me be more independent''.

'(The Bright Sparks workshop) gave me the motivation to make changes and save money''.

'The Bright Sparks workshop made me more aware of my rights as a consumer''.

'(The workshop) Brought to my attention that I need to ensure the power company knows that I require power for charging my wheelchair, hoist and air mattress' (registering as a life support customer).

Hear from host organisations

Testimonials from the host orgsanisation. Find out how the Bright Sparks workshops impacted their community members.

'The workshop was so well put together and considerate of access needs for everyone! The information was clear and covered a lot about energy consumption and some useful tips on getting the best energy deals. Our participants were thoroughly engaged and walked away with lots of practical valuable information'.

One of the attendees felt very confident in their knowledge about energy and was not expecting to learn more. After discussing how to read a bill, after the workshop they went home and looked at their electric bill and realized they were not receiving their concession rebate. They have since reached out to their provider to get this confirmed as well as be reimbursed for their over-payments from the last few months

'Thank you so much for (today's Bright Sparks workshop). The members absolutely loved it! Your understanding of mental health and your well-considered address were amazing, and the information you shared was incredibly valuable. We really appreciate you giving your time and knowledge'.

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