Empowering Women in Construction: A Daily Commitment

A week has passed since International Women’s Day, a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. Yet, for the Australian building and construction industry, the commitment to enhancing female participation and recognising their contributions extends far beyond this single day. Master Builders Australia’s recent unveiling of the Breaking Ground: Women in building and construction policy platform underscores this ongoing dedication.

Despite the construction sector being a cornerstone of the Australian economy, employing over 1.3 million individuals, women’s representation remains starkly low, with just 15% of the workforce and a mere 3% in hands-on roles. Denita Wawn, CEO of Master Builders Australia, emphasizes, “While we’ve seen progress, the figures speak volumes; the construction industry’s gender imbalance is a challenge we must tackle head-on, every day, not just once a year.”

Breaking Ground isn’t just a reaction to the underrepresentation of women in construction; it’s a proactive blueprint for long-term, sustainable change. The initiative aims to dissolve the systemic barriers that deter women from entering the field, fostering an industry that is inclusive, diverse, and ripe with opportunity for everyone.

Among its many proposals, Breaking Ground advocates for unbiased career guidance and practical experiences for young women, accessible information for parents, and a commitment from industry leaders to promote a culture of safety, respect, and equality. The policy also calls for enhanced support and flexibility for women, especially those navigating the challenges of pregnancy or childcare, to achieve a harmonious balance between their personal lives and professional ambitions.

Central to Master Builders Australia’s vision is the support for initiatives like Women Building Australia, offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and resources tailored to women at various career stages within the industry. These efforts are pivotal in dismantling participation barriers, celebrating the positive aspects of a career in construction, and striving towards a future marked by gender equality.

As we move forward from International Women’s Day, it’s clear that the push for gender diversity in the construction industry is not confined to a single day of celebration but is a continuous endeavour. By implementing the strategies outlined in Breaking Ground, Master Builders Australia is leading the charge towards an industry that not only values but thrives on the contributions of women. This is a commitment to make every day an opportunity to inspire and integrate more women into the building and construction workforce, paving the way for a more balanced, innovative, and inclusive future.