The Australian Constructors Association (ACA) is launching a groundbreaking initiative supported by the NSW Government’s Women in Construction Industry Innovation Program grant. This program aims to attract mid-career women to the construction industry.

Jon Davies, ACA CEO, highlighted that this initiative is a first-of-its-kind effort, uniting major contractors to offer women an authentic glimpse into a construction career.

“Engaging school leavers is crucial, but we see a significant opportunity in drawing women with real-life experience,” Mr. Davies noted.

He added, “Many women are unaware that their skills from other industries can seamlessly transition into construction. Introducing these women into our field can drive the cultural shift we urgently need, extending beyond mere gender balance.”

The Attract Initiative, developed by ACA’s Culture Committee and led by Jayne Whitney, Chief Strategy Officer at John Holland, aims to highlight the industry’s evolving culture and the numerous opportunities available for women.

Jayne Whitney explained, “Women often hesitate to apply for roles unless they have direct experience. We want them to know that the construction industry welcomes their skills and experience. There’s a role for everyone here.”

The initiative features a public awareness campaign, including a web-based portal where women can explore construction careers. Additionally, women will have the chance to visit construction sites and experience the work environment firsthand.

“We believe that visiting our sites will inspire women by showcasing the significant impact of our work on shaping the world,” Ms. Whitney said. “The potential for career advancement in construction is unparalleled.”

Construction remains one of Australia’s most male-dominated industries, with women comprising only 12 percent of the workforce and less than 2 percent of on-site roles. ACA’s Attract initiative is part of a broader commitment by member companies to drive cultural change. This includes implementing workplace flexibility policies and working towards the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) Employer of Choice for Gender Equality citation. Four ACA member companies have already achieved this citation, marking substantial progress towards a more inclusive industry.

The ACA extends its gratitude to the NSW Government for its support of the Attract initiative. The NSW Government’s Industry Innovation Program is a key action of the Women in Construction Program, which funds innovative industry ideas to foster inclusive workplace cultures, attract and retain women in construction, and support female employees and leaders.

Over three years, the NSW Government is investing $20.2 million in the Women in Construction Program, aiming to increase the number of women in trade and non-traditional roles. In August, Year 2 of the Industry Innovation Program was announced, with $2.2 million allocated to 13 industry recipients.