Women pushed to male-dominated fields
A new federal scheme aims to support women’s career development in various sectors.
The $60 million Building Women’s Careers Program is designed to enhance women’s participation in vocational education and training (VET) and the workforce.
This initiative seeks to address barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields such as construction, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and digital technology.
Senator Katy Gallagher, Minister for Women, says the program will foster inclusive growth.
The program is part of the broader $22.7 billion Future Made in Australia initiative outlined in the 2024-25 Budget.
The program’s grants will fund partnerships designed to improve women’s access to skilled and higher-paid roles, addressing the country’s skills shortage.
Eligible projects could involve changes in workplace culture, improved safety measures, flexible rostering, and training opportunities tailored for women.
The program encourages partnerships between industries, employers, unions, training organisations, and community groups.
Minister for Skills and Training, Andrew Giles, says the program could break down barriers in male-dominated industries.
“Every job should be open to everyone, it’s that simple,” he said.
Grant applications open on 14 November and close on 2 December.
The program supports both industry-led and community-led projects. Large-scale projects will require a minimum of four partner organisations employing over 1,000 workers, while smaller projects will need at least three partners.