Women in Trades: Opportunities and Earnings in Australia
Australia is currently grappling with a significant shortage of skilled workers in various trades, particularly in the building and construction sector. Despite women constituting only three per cent of qualified workers in trades, emerging research suggests there are particular roles where female participation is notably higher and lucrative.
Key Findings from NextMinute’s Analysis
NextMinute, a platform specialised in trade jobs, analysed official labour market data alongside SEEK job advertisements to identify trades where women could earn up to $2,404 per week. Alex Jenks, CEO of NextMinute, highlighted the growing presence of women in trades as beneficial for the industry, contributing diversity and fresh perspectives.
Jenks remarked, “Women are increasingly joining and succeeding in trades roles, bringing diversity, skill, and new perspectives to the industry. There is still work to be done, but these figures show real momentum and opportunity for women considering careers in the trades.”
Female Participation in Various Trades
The analysis revealed that handyperson roles exhibited a considerable share of female workers, with women making up 8 per cent of this category. Currently, there are over 3,000 job listings for handypersons with a median full-time wage of $1,307 per week. Other trades witnessing an increase in female participation include:
- Fencing: 5% female representation
- Cabinetmaking: 5% female representation
- Electricians: 4% female representation
Particularly noteworthy is the demand for electricians, evidenced by more than 16,700 job postings, offering a median full-time wage of $2,204 weekly.
Wage Trends and Government Initiatives
According to separate data from Employment Hero, construction and trade wages experienced an 8% annual increase as of April, with the current median hourly rate across the industry reaching $50.60.
The following are the top five trades for women, including their average weekly incomes:
- Handyperson: 8% female share and $1,307 median weekly wage
- Building and Plumbing Labourers: 7% female share and $1,634 median weekly wage
- Cabinetmakers: 5% female share and $1,216 median weekly wage
- Fencer: 5% female share and $30 median hourly earnings
- Electrician: 4% female share and $2,204 median weekly wage
In an effort to encourage more women into trades roles, the government has announced a $45 million investment aimed at enhancing advocacy, recruitment, and training for women in this field. Minister for Women, Katy Gallagher, indicated that Australia has one of the highest rates of industry segregation among advanced economies.
Minister for Skills and Training, Andrew Giles, added that increasing female participation in trades is crucial for addressing the skills gap and contributing to Australia’s economic future. According to Master Builders Australia, while women account for 15% of the construction workforce, merely 3% are directly involved in hands-on roles.
To facilitate this transition, industry experts advocate for cultural changes and implementation of flexible work structures, aimed at better attracting and retaining women in these positions.
Conclusion
The landscape for women in trades in Australia is gradually transforming, with significant opportunities available in various roles. Continued support from government initiatives and industry structures is vital to bolster female participation in trades, ultimately helping to alleviate the skills shortage and enhance diversity in this essential sector.
