- Applications for the grant are open until 19 February 2024.
- Construction remains a male-dominated industry, with women only comprising 2% of trade roles.
- The first year of the program saw 21 funding recipients.
The second round of grants for the Women in Construction Industry Innovation Program opened on 22 January 2024. The program is being delivered as part of the New South Wales State Government’s $20.2 million Women in Construction Program.
Grant amounts are from $30,000 to $300,000, with applications closing 19 February 2024 at 2:00pm.
Administered by the Department of Education, the program is funded by the Department of Education and Infrastructure NSW.
Funding goes towards the support of industry-led initiatives across New South Wales to increase the number of women working in the construction industry, improve workplace culture, create inclusive and safe work environments, and to empower women in leadership roles.
“The demand for construction workers continues to be high across the state. As we continue to deliver infrastructure projects it is paramount we increase the proportion of women in construction to improve industry diversity and productivity,” said Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan.
Currently, 12% of the construction sector comprises women, while only 2% are represented in trade roles.
“Increasing the participation of women in construction is not about meeting quotas; it is about cultivating a skilled, versatile and experienced workforce,” added Minister Whan.
“Empowering more women to choose a career in construction will lead to greater innovation, diversity, and progress, ultimately building a stronger and more inclusive future for the industry.”
During the first year of the program, 21 funding recipients led initiatives ranging from education opportunities for women entering the industry via mentoring, work experience programs and opportunity showcases and site visits for school-based students – to training for established workforces, with the introduction of training to influence existing workplace behaviours to develop respectful and safe cultures on site.
Other initiatives included embedding more flexible work practices, and providing a variety of child-care support mechanisms for parents and carers, which helps to address the obstacles that prevent women from considering a career in construction.
“The future of our trades industry lies in embracing the diversity and capabilities of all workers. The Industry Innovation Program aims to engage the industry in creating a safe, inclusive and dynamic workforce that welcomes and supports women in all trade roles,” said Minister for Women, Minister for Seniors, and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison.
