A new program designed to assist 280 women with securing and completing a carpentry apprenticeship, is one of 13 projects the NSW Government will fund to increase women’s participation in the construction industry.

To date, the Women in Construction Industry Innovation Program (WIC IIP) has awarded close to $6 million in grant funding to increase the number of women entering and staying in the industry by building more inclusive workplaces.

With women representing only 12 per cent of the construction workforce, the WIC IIP focuses on innovative ways to lift women’s participation, which in turn will contribute to addressing the skills shortages.

The grant given to Carpentry Australia’s ‘CarpentHer Crew’ program will assist women in securing and completing their apprenticeships, highlight pathways for further opportunities and development within the industry.

The program aims to champion women in the industry by prioritising upskilling, connecting them with industry networks and mentors, enabling leadership and business ownership opportunities and assisting women to gain their qualifications.

With 87 per cent of female carpenters taking 4-6 months to secure an apprenticeship, Carpentry Australia’s CarpentHER portal connects women with employers to significantly reduce the wait time and prevent them from abandoning the industry.

The WIC IIP projects will be led by a range of sector leaders including construction industry representatives, industry associations, contractors and builders.

For more information and the full list of successful funding recipients and their projects, visit the NSW Government Industry Innovation Program page HERE.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said:

“Women are heavily under-represented in the construction sector and an untapped resource for us to build our communities and infrastructure.

“The Women in Construction Industry Innovation Program projects are proposing creative and innovative ways to tackle the gender gap and I look forward to seeing the industry reap the rewards in coming years.

“By having these initiatives led by individual organisations, we are propagating a grassroots movement that encourages participation, retention and advancement of women by the industry, for the industry.”

Minister for Women, Jodie Harrison said:

“The NSW Government is committed on improving gender equality across all sectors and encouraging women into non-traditional roles is a key focus for us.

“The Women in Construction Industry Innovation Program is a great way for us to partner with industry to change the culture from the ground up, boost participation and retention, and provide women with career pathways in the industry.

“The benefits that come from gender equality are not just good for women, they’re good for everyone.”

Carpentry Australia CEO, Jake McArthur said:

"The Women in Construction Industry Innovation Program grant represents a pivotal opportunity for Carpentry Australia and our members.

“This initiative empowers us to actively champion women entering the carpentry trade, offering vital support in connecting them with employers and apprenticeships.

“By prioritising upskilling, we’re committed to ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of our carpenters, while advancing our mission to build a stronger, better Australia.

“We are deeply grateful to the NSW Government for their vision and support in launching this important initiative.”