In a significant stride towards fostering gender diversity and inclusivity in the construction industry, the Building Commission NSW has unveiled a pivotal report aimed at increasing the participation of women across construction sites throughout New South Wales. The Women in Construction Report not only sheds light on the existing challenges faced by women in the field but also proposes actionable recommendations to rectify systemic barriers hindering their progress.

With the construction sector in NSW, and here in Kiama specifically, poised for substantial growth, the imperative to address gender imbalances becomes ever more pressing. The report's findings underscore the necessity of fostering an environment that not only attracts but also retains female talent, thereby bolstering the industry's productivity and meeting the burgeoning demand for skilled labour.

Mark Redding, director of Integrity Homes in Kiama said that whilst he employed women in roles such as drafting and estimating, he had never had a female apply for a carpentry role. Though he would have no qualms in employing women in that role as their attention to detail is often superior.  

At the heart of the report lie sobering statistics. Small to medium construction enterprises, which constitute the backbone of the industry, employ a mere fraction of women, with a staggering 35% of these businesses having no female representation whatsoever. Furthermore, a startling 71 per cent of women in such establishments report facing discrimination, while half of them recount experiences of sexual harassment, painting a grim picture of the prevailing workplace culture.

One of the report's notable revelations is the apprehension among some employers, particularly in smaller firms, regarding the legal ramifications associated with potential misconduct by male employees towards their female counterparts. This fear, coupled with perceptions of the physical demands of the job, often dissuades employers from actively seeking female recruits, perpetuating the cycle of underrepresentation.

To combat these entrenched challenges, the report presents a multifaceted approach encompassing various stakeholders within the construction ecosystem. Recommendations range from dispelling negative stereotypes and enhancing HR practices to fostering a more inclusive workplace culture that accommodates the diverse needs of all employees.

The significance of this initiative extends beyond mere rhetoric, as evidenced by the NSW Government's commitment to action. The $20.2 million Women in Construction Program, inclusive of the Industry Innovation Program, stands as a testament to the government's resolve in effecting tangible change within the industry. With grants now available under the program's second year, stakeholders are encouraged to seize the opportunity to champion initiatives that promote gender diversity and inclusivity.

David Chandler OAM, NSW Building Commissioner, encapsulates the essence of this endeavor, emphasizing the transformative potential of a more inclusive construction industry. He underscores the importance of heeding the report's recommendations, not merely as a matter of social equity but as a strategic imperative to address the impending shortfall of skilled labour.

By championing the participation and retention of women in construction, NSW stands to reap the dividends of a more diverse and innovative industry. As stakeholders rally behind the call for action, the trajectory of the construction sector in NSW is poised to be defined by inclusivity, empowerment, and sustained growth.