Currently, only 2% of the population of construction workers are women. The Victorian government is leading Australian policy by taking steps to increase women’s representation in building and construction. The ‘Building Gender Equality: Victoria’s Women in Construction Strategy 2019-2022’ is overseen by The Building Industry Consultative Council (BICC). The BICC acts as a forum for dialogue between government, employers, industry associations and unions on significant issues affecting the building and construction industry. The Strategy was developed after extensive research and consultation with people in the construction industry, who are eager to contribute to the BICC’s initiative.
Along with government initiatives, there is a significant push from within the industry to focus on encouraging women to pursue a career in building and construction. The 2021 Sydney Build Expo has dedicated an entire panel to gender diversity, naming it the “Women in Construction Summit”. The panel agenda includes topics like:
- Empowering women in construction
- Building Women, not just Houses
- Breaking through the glass ceiling – how can women reach senior and board positions within the construction industry?
- Celebrating the success of women in construction
- How can we encourage young girls to consider a career in construction?
Summits like this inspire the confidence of women in the industry, as well as younger women who are considering starting their career path. These panels aim to encourage gender diversity within the industry and create an equal workplace for men and women.
