Australia’s construction industry, long dominated by men, is undergoing a quiet revolution.
According to Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ), female participation reached a record high in May 2024, but women still represent only 17 per cent of the workforce and just 5 per cent in construction trades. As the country grapples with skilled labour shortages, it’s becoming clear that promoting gender diversity is not just a moral imperative—it’s a practical solution.
Industry shift
With organisations like Awesome Women in Construction (AWIC) and innovative platforms like PlanRadar, the industry is shifting to create more opportunities for women. As gender diversity becomes increasingly critical, these initiatives are leading the charge to ensure women play a key role in the construction industry’s future.
As gender diversity becomes increasingly critical, these initiatives are leading the charge to ensure women play a key role in the construction industry’s future.
Why gender diversity matters: Expanding the workforce for Australia’s future
The construction industry is one of the backbones of Australia’s economy, but a lack of diversity could hinder its ability to meet the growing demand for infrastructure. The inclusion of women can bring fresh perspectives, foster innovation, and address the country’s labour shortages.
Amanda Bulow, Founder & CEO of AWIC, says, “Showcasing the available roles within the construction industry will assist in the growth of female participation. When people think about construction, they often only consider the trades. But there are so many other roles available—surveyors, project managers, accountants—and we need to highlight these opportunities to bring more women into the fold.”
AWIC’s initiatives, such as their Roadshow Snapshot program, are opening doors for women across the country. Designed to offer immersive, hands-on experiences, the roadshow has already reached over 5,000 students and provided site visits and factory tours to inspire future female leaders in construction.
Addressing the construction education gap
Addressing the education gap is essential for increasing women’s participation in the Australian construction industry. Early exposure to construction careers, along with promoting STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education and skilled trades training for girls, can significantly shape their career aspirations. Traditionally viewed as a male-dominated field, construction often lacks awareness of the opportunities available to women. By implementing initiatives like career fairs, school outreach programs, and mentorship opportunities, schools can help break down stereotypes and provide young women with insights into diverse roles within construction, ranging from engineering and project management to hands-on trades such as carpentry and plumbing.
“Schools can help break down stereotypes and provide young women with insights into diverse roles within construction”
AWIC’s groundbreaking Roadshow Snapshot initiative aims to inspire and equip students for future success in the construction industry by offering immersive, hands-on experiences beyond the classroom. Through industry-led site visits, factory tours, showroom sessions, and other creative opportunities, AWIC showcases the vast possibilities within the field. Designed to spark curiosity and ignite passion in the next generation of leaders, the 2023/2024 roadshow has travelled over 9,500 kilometres, engaging 5,000 students across more than 40 schools and offering 30+ industry site visits.
Vocational training and apprenticeships are also vital for overcoming barriers that women face when entering the construction industry. Historically, these programs have been male-oriented, limiting women’s access to valuable on-the-job experience. Initiatives and programs like Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ), a partner of Awesome Women in Construction (AWIC), offer financial support, mentoring, and job placements specifically designed to encourage women’s entry into construction. Explore the upcoming 2024-2025 CSQ Training Plan for more information here.
Additionally, partnerships between industry leaders and educational institutions can develop specialised courses and training programs that promote diversity and cater to women’s needs in today’s evolving workforce. By making apprenticeships more accessible and targeted towards women, the industry can foster an environment where women can learn, grow, and thrive.
Leon Ward, Regional Lead (Australia + New Zealand) for PlanRadar, comments, “Programs that are designed to attract more women by offering flexible learning pathways, work placements, and dedicated support networks, are essential in addressing the current education gap.”
Building an inclusive future
Beyond technology, cultural shifts are essential. Women still face challenges such as gender bias, underrepresentation in leadership roles, and a lack of mentorship. Creating an inclusive environment with family-friendly work arrangements and mentorship opportunities is crucial to retaining women in the workforce.
PlanRadar and AWIC are committed to leading these changes and promoting a more inclusive and diverse construction industry that will meet Australia’s growing infrastructure needs.
