Building Diversity in the Construction Sector
Diversity is a hot topic across all industries, including construction. With more than 100,000 additional construction workers needed by 2023 to deliver the infrastructure pipeline, it is essential that we widen our talent pool and make construction a desirable place to work for people from all walks of life.
Construction is the most male dominated workplace in Australia. Only 12 per cent of the industry’s workers are female, 60 per cent of whom feel that they are not supported adequately when facing inappropriate or challenging behaviour on site. As a result, we’re forgoing the talents of a large population of available workers.
Numerous initiatives are being implemented across the nation to address ongoing diversity issues.
Construction Industry Culture Taskforce (CICT)
The CICT has launched a virtual consultation hub on diversity and inclusion, aiming to make construction a better place to work for all. Through an evidence-based approach involving consultations, engagement, feedback, and advocacy, the taskforce is driving change across Australia.
Building Equality Policy (BEP)
This government-implemented initiative creates training and employment opportunities for women in the construction industry. The BEP’s leading goal is disrupting harmful existing gender stereotypes, norms, and roles in the construction sector. The ultimate end goal is not only to make work sites inclusive but empowering as well.
National Agreement on Closing the Gap
In 2020, all Australian governments and the Coalition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peak Organisations partnered together to develop the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, providing employment for First Nations peoples across a variety of industries, including construction.
Inclusivity is a group effort. Change is on the horizon, and we must all do our individual part to make construction a welcoming industry for all. Fostering a sense of belonging, taking accountability for problematic actions, and employing workers from various backgrounds is vital to the success of the Australian construction industry.
