Most tradies are men. According to Charles Sturt University, an overwhelming percentage - something like 97% of tradies - are men. But something powerful is happening.
More and more, there are women stepping into the world of skilled trades. And by entering this overwhelmingly male-dominated workforce, they’re breaking down barriers and challenging long-held stereotypes. From women electricians to women plumbers, lady tradies everywhere are redefining the trades, proving that gender is not - or shouldn’t be - a barrier to a trade career for women. To celebrate this shift, we want to explore what it means to be a lady tradie, and what unique challenges women face when getting into this field.
The Gender Gap in Skilled Trades
Stereotypes have been a big problem for women trying to enter into a trade. Traditionally, skilled trades in construction, building, and maintenance were considered male-dominated fields. And even though the government and industry leaders have been trying for the last three decades to even out the gender imbalance in the field, these sectors remain highly gender segregated.
The causes are complicated.
A recent study from The Financial Review revealed that women are cautious about entering trade jobs. It highlights the pressure that female tradies face to fit in as ‘one of the boys’ rather than being valued for their unique contributions. The cultural attitude towards women in the trades is reflected at every level, starting with educational experiences and offered career paths.
Additionally, the study found problems within schools and training centres that teach trade skills to young Australians. These places often don't address the fact that there aren't many women learning trades, and in some cases may not deal well with the issues of unfair treatment and harassment at work. Women in the study often said they were encouraged to ignore offensive behaviour because speaking up would make them seem “too sensitive”.
And when women do pursue a trade career, some employers are hesitant to hire them. Perhaps because trade jobs have been traditionally seen as male-dominated, it is hard for women to be accepted and valued in this field. And, unfortunately, there also are concerns from some men in the field that women entering these jobs might be seen as taking over roles that were historically considered for men. It’s a wider shift reflected in not only the trades: the proportion of male nurses has sat at 10% for the previous decade, with a similar stigma for men who enter a female-dominated career path. Efforts are being made on both fronts, to remove gender stigma and encourage men and women to consider all potential careers as possible.
In a 2024 article from News.com.au, Master Builders’ chief executive Denita Wawn points out that only 50% of the potential workforce is utilised for building, construction and other related trade jobs. The industry can't afford that gap with the high demand for housing and a skills shortage in key trades.
For the past thirty years, despite efforts from both government and industry, women are still undervalued because of unfair treatment based on their gender. This is worsened by the fact that inappropriate sexual comments and harassment are overwhelmingly tolerated in the industry, making things even harder for women in these fields.
Unique Challenges Faced by Lady Tradies
Breaking down stereotypes is just one part of the journey. The NSW government’s Women in Trades Review outlines the multilayered barriers obstructing women from pursuing a career in the trades and remaining in trade programs and jobs.
Female tradies will need a few extra tools in their kit to thrive in a trade job owing to the following unique challenges.
Limited Representation
The lack of role models and the scarcity of women in trades can make it difficult to feel motivated to enter the field. However, things are changing. As more women succeed, they're becoming the pioneers that others will one day admire and follow.
Safety Concerns
Women working in male-dominated trades face distinct safety challenges. These include:
- Issues with personal protective equipment (PPE) can arise when the gear is not designed to fit women.
- Work environments lacking representation and mentorship can affect safety awareness.
- Emergency response protocols might not cater to women's needs.
Addressing these concerns requires changes in workplace culture, training, equipment design, and policies.
Discrimination and Harassment
Addressing any bias or discrimination in trade workplaces is really important so everyone feels safe and equal at work. When biases aren't addressed, there's a greater chance of bullying and unfair treatment, which can make workplaces feel unsafe.
Also, if there are fewer women, they might feel alone, and it could be harder for them to get support. Helping women feel that they can speak out against unfair treatment will improve the whole industry.
Wage Disparity
Like in many industries, wage disparities persist. However, the growing presence of women in trades is shedding light on the importance of pay equality and advocating for fair compensation. Because no matter your gender, you deserve equal and fair pay for the job you do.
Does your wage fall within the current standard wage rate for electricians? Check the electrician salary guide.
Skilled trades offer women superior earning potential compared to other career paths, along with stability and diverse career prospects. These fields could play a big role in reducing workplace gender segregation and closing the pay gap in Australia.
Educational and Training Opportunities for Female Tradies
Fortunately, opportunities continue to grow as the industry recognises the need for equal opportunity to meet skills shortages and level the playing field. Using data from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), the Ministers’ Media Centre found an increase of almost 80% more women training as trade apprentices, compared to data from only five years ago. Programs for secondary students, apprentices, and women who want to make a career change are becoming more available and extensive throughout Australia and New Zealand.
Apprenticeship Programs
Women-centred apprenticeship and work experience programs continue to grow and provide future female tradies with the skills, support and guidance to establish themselves in the industry.
Programs like Try-A-Trade in Western Australia offer hands-on experiences that can spark interest and provide insight into the variety of trades available.
Maori and Pasifika Trades Training offers mentorship, scholarship and apprenticeships for women 16-40 who want to join the trade industry. Based in Auckland, they can help prospective tradies choose, enrol and succeed in their chosen profession.
Vocational Schools and Colleges
Education institutions are reimagining how they present trades to students, ensuring that pathways to apprenticeships are accessible to all.
For example, TAFE Queensland works with government, industry and employers to create a pipeline for female tradies to choose, study and excel in their trade.
In Victoria, Holmesglen Institute offers female-focused construction pathways designed to skill, support and place women into apprenticeships.
In New Zealand, Connexis’ Girls with High Vis program provides workshops and training opportunities to introduce more female secondary students to a potential trade career. They’re shifting the landscape and partnering with electrical, civil and water industries to provide more opportunities than ever to young women.
Women-Focused Training Initiatives
Initiatives aimed at encouraging women tradies to explore trades are on the rise, offering tailored support and mentorship.
Build-Like-A-Girl develops pre-apprenticeship programs for women interested in a trade as a career pathway. The non-profit offers pathway programs for pre-apprenticeship and entry-level programs to earn a cert III in carpentry, plumbing or electrical.
The Construction Training Fund (CTF), based in Western Australia, provides equal opportunity funding initiatives, including apprentice cash support, updating work skills, and employer funding to offset training costs.
Connexis’ Ultimit Initiative is focused on recruiting, training, and supporting women in joining the New Zealand infrastructure industry. Its roadmap highlights future-forward commitment to the industry and to young women.
Trade Associations and Unions
These organisations play a crucial role in advocating for equality and pushing for changes that benefit all tradies.
The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) is an Australian-wide association for female tradies from all walks of life. Becoming a member connects women to a huge support network and professional opportunities. The organisation updates the latest news of the industry landscape and opportunities for female tradies.
Master Builders NSW is committed to providing equal opportunity pathways and support with the Equal Opportunities for Women in the Workplace (EOWA) program, leveraging their network of educators, providers and employers to provide the best start for female tradies.
Tradeswomen Australia (TWA) is a community foundation focused on the future of women in trades. They provide information sessions, workshops, career support, employment networks and partnerships with vocational education providers. Susan Alberti, the first female registered builder in Australia and patron of TWA, says closing the gap is more urgent than ever.
Women in Trades NZ (WIT) promotes the vital role of women in the future of the trades, connecting with industry bodies to showcase the importance of recruiting, supporting and employing female tradies. WIT runs events and programs to connect women to the industry and provide information and education to start their trade career.
Mentorship Programs
Establishing mentorship networks can provide guidance and advice from those who have successfully navigated the challenges of the industry.
Empowered Women in Trades (EWIT), established by Hacia Atherton, is focused on fostering a national alliance of female trade professionals to revolutionise the industry. Their vision is a united industry and strong mentorship and support for women joining the trades.
The Lady Tradies is a national mentorship and support program started by female tradies for female tradies. They know the landscape and are using their expertise and network to open the industry and create equal representation.
MEGT highlights the necessity of mentorships and role models within the industry, providing no-cost mentoring to female apprentices to support them through their study and work experience.
Tools and Resources for Women Tradies
Government initiatives, industry support and associations are paving the way for women to have greater options and resources to enter the trades.
Websites like Tradeswomen Australia, Women in Trades New Zealand and The Lady Tradies offer valuable insights, support, and a sense of community.
What's The Solution?
The obvious answer is to teach students and apprentices how to be respectful and professional on the job, no matter whether their co-workers are men or women. Additionally, training teachers to counter sexism and prevent harassment would foster a more positive learning environment. Networks of practitioners promoting gender sensitivity, mixed-gender teaching teams, and women-only training environments are also potential avenues.
Additionally, realising women's potential in the trades starts before work and tertiary education. Schools and education providers must also erase the gap for all students, and provide the same range of work experiences, vocational education and career advice.
Empowering Women to Excel in the Trades
The wave of change is undeniable. Women bring fresh ideas, dedication, and a different perspective to the trade industry. More instances of women starting a trade business benefit the industry as a whole, improving productivity and contributing to lasting, high-quality work.
Demand for skilled labour is high across the trades. Opportunities are abundant in construction and electrical, especially as governments invest in infrastructure nationwide. Additionally, discover the incentives, organisations and governmental support to encourage more female plumbers to meet industry demand. As climate systems evolve and the HVAC industry grows, join some of the highest-paid trade techs in the country as an HVAC tradie.
More women should seize these prospects and reshape the landscape of the trades, but getting more women interested in pursuing these careers depends greatly on addressing the issues within the industry.
Taking the First Steps
Starting an apprenticeship may seem daunting, but resources and support are available to help make the journey smoother. Organisations such as VERTO’s CareerGate, The Lady Tradies, and Women in Trades (NZ) assist women in navigating the process and finding the right employer.
Building a Support Network
A strong support network can make all the difference to new female tradies. Partners, families, and mentors are vital in helping women succeed in their apprenticeships. Finding employers who recognise talent regardless of gender is key to thriving in the industry.
More and more industry bodies and companies are recognising the untapped potential of female tradies and offering their support for women joining the trades. Local and community support networks, such as Skilled Women in Trades (NZ) and Supporting and Linking Tradeswomen (AUS), offer professional and personal relationships to support women throughout their trade journey.
Sharing Your Story
As female tradies, your stories are powerful agents of change. By sharing experiences with others, whether in schools, the media, or on social platforms, you're breaking down barriers and paving the way for the next generation of lady tradies. Don't hesitate to reach out to industry professionals for advice and insight – you'll often find enthusiastic mentors ready to share their knowledge. TAFE Queensland’s Women in Trades campaign has its fair share of trailblazers, women from all walks of life thriving in their chosen trade.
Don’t be disheartened at the relatively small number of female tradies today, either! The ones who do exist are bucking trends and finding success, just like you can with enough care and dedication. There are more stories than ever of female tradies finding their passion and support through the process. Female apprentices of all ages are finding their careers and making an impact in the industry as they do it.
Take one of our clients, The Lady on the Roof, as an example. A successful female-run skylight and roof ventilation installation business and a shining example of how women-led trade businesses are here to stay.
Recognising Women’s Achievements in the Trades Sector
The path to equality in the trades is being forged by the determination and dedication of women. Every challenge overcome, every stereotype shattered, contributes to a brighter, more inclusive future. As we challenge outdated perceptions, celebrate accomplishments, and share experiences, we're shaping an industry where everyone has a place – regardless of gender.
The trades should be open to all who want to give their best and work hard, and women across Australia and New Zealand are transforming the industry.
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