The New South Wales government has opened its annual Women in Construction industry survey, inviting onsite construction workers — both women and men — to share their experiences and perspectives on workplace culture and diversity.
The survey, which is now live and takes approximately 10 minutes to complete, is a key part of the government’s ongoing efforts to drive cultural change and foster greater inclusion across the construction sector.
This initiative builds on the momentum of previous years’ surveys, which have already provided valuable data to inform policy and program development.
The construction industry remains male-dominated, with women representing just 12 per cent of the workforce, despite a recent 12.5 per cent increase in female participation.
The latest results show women now make up 20 per cent of the workforce in surveyed businesses, signalling progress but also highlighting the need for continued focus on gender diversity.
Key challenges identified in past surveys include a lack of work-life balance, insufficient flexible working hours, and limited access to mentoring and leadership training.
Notably, 69 per cent of women reported experiencing gender-based discrimination in the past year, and one-third encountered workplace sexual harassment.
These findings underscore the importance of targeted initiatives to address entrenched cultural issues and create safer, more supportive environments for all workers.
The NSW government has responded by leveraging its procurement power to encourage contractors to introduce flexible workplace policies and develop mentoring programs.
Major infrastructure projects, such as the Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 and the Randwick Children’s Hospital Redevelopment, are piloting new standards like capped working hours and a five-day work week to improve the recruitment and retention of women in construction.
Insights from the 2025 survey will help shape the future direction of the Women in Construction Program and broader industry reforms.
By collecting anonymous feedback from those working onsite, the government aims to ensure its strategies are informed by real-world experiences and drive meaningful change across the sector.
Construction workers can participate in the survey until Friday, 5 July 2024, by visiting the official survey portal.
